Indefinite Curfew in Nepal's Sunsari After Fatal Clash; PM Promises Justice

Curfew has been extended indefinitely in parts of Nepal's Sunsari district, which borders India, after communal violence left one person dead and several injured. Prime Minister Balendra Shah expressed grief over the incident and pledged justice for the affected families.

The restrictions were first imposed on Monday, July 27, 2026, following a dispute that escalated into clashes between two religious communities during celebrations in the Kaptangunj area on Sunday. Police fired into the air to disperse the crowd, resulting in one death and injuries to more than a dozen people, including security personnel.

In a social media post on Tuesday, Prime Minister Shah paid tribute to the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He stated, 'The government stands in deep solidarity with the affected families and reiterates its commitment to ensuring justice for them.' He added that the death and injuries caused by security personnel fire are 'matters of serious concern' and that an investigation has been initiated. Action will be taken against those found guilty.

Shah urged citizens to remain calm, avoid provocation and retaliation, and contribute to maintaining social harmony, mutual trust, and tolerance. He said the government is reviewing the entire incident and will implement necessary corrective measures.

The local administration issued a fresh notice at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, extending the curfew from five to six areas in the district. The curfew is imposed for an indefinite period, or until further notice, and violators face legal action. All gatherings, demonstrations, sit-ins, public meetings, and movement of people are prohibited within the curfew zone.

The curfew covers stretches of the East-West Highway within Itahari Sub-metropolitan City Ward No. 16 and 17, and within Ramdhuni Municipality Ward Nos. 1 and 5, as well as the entire areas of Inaruwa Municipality, Duhabi Municipality, Bhokraha Narsingh Rural Municipality, Koshi Rural Municipality, Gadhi Rural Municipality, Devangunj Rural Municipality, Harihar Rural Municipality, and Barju Rural Municipality.

Sunsari district, in southeastern Nepal along the border with India's Bihar, is a crucial transit and commercial corridor between the two countries. The indefinite curfew aims to restore order and prevent further violence.