Nepal Imposes Indefinite Curfew After Deadly Communal Violence

The Sunsari District Administration Office imposed and expanded an indefinite curfew on July 29 following communal violence that erupted on July 26 in the Kaptangunj area. The clashes, sparked by a dispute during celebrations between two religious communities in the Dewanganj Rural Municipality, resulted in one death and 22 injuries. Police opened fire to disperse crowds, leading to casualties among citizens and security personnel.

Balendra Shah, Prime Minister of Nepal, condemned the violence and pledged strict legal action and compensation for victims. He specifically identified the deaths and injuries caused by security personnel gunfire as matters of serious concern and initiated an investigation. In response to the unrest, the Ministry of Home Affairs established an inquiry committee to report findings within seven days, and the Ministry of Health and Population began providing free medical treatment to the injured.

At the federal level, the government reshuffled security leadership, recalling the Sunsari Chief District Officer and the Koshi Province Police Chief. Home Minister Sudan Gurung convened the Central Security Committee on July 27 and 28, expressing dissatisfaction with the security response and ordering the deployment of drones and CCTV for border surveillance. While Army Lieutenant General Pradeep KC argued that tactical decisions should remain at the field level, political leaders led by Rabi Lamichhane held an all-party meeting on July 29 to sign a seven-point agreement promoting social harmony and improved central coordination.