Nepalese authorities announced an indefinite curfew in parts of Saptari district on July 31, 2026, following protests that erupted over recent communal violence in neighbouring Sunsari. This action is aimed at controlling the escalating tensions that have now affected four districts in total, with similar prohibitory measures already in place in Sunsari, Dhanusha, and Siraha.

The District Administration Office in Saptari implemented the curfew, starting from 8 am, particularly in the Rajbiraj municipality. This decision was made in response to protests following a string of violent clashes. Authorities have heightened security in the southern Terai region of Nepal, which is adjacent to the Indian border, in an effort to maintain control and ensure public safety.

Reports indicate that the rise in unrest has already led to three fatalities, prompting concerns among the government officials. President Ram Chandra Paudel and Prime Minister Balendra Shah have publicly expressed their worries about the situation and urged citizens to exercise calm, unity, and restraint.

Clashes Surge Following Religious Tensions

The recent wave of violence is reportedly rooted in a clash between members of two religious communities in Sunsari district, which ignited on Sunday. The conflict arose during separate programmes when disagreements over loudspeakers and religious flag displays turned violent. Police intervened as the situation deteriorated, leading to an officer-involved shooting that resulted in one death and multiple injuries.

On Thursday, the violence escalated into Madhesh province, where a teenager lost their life in Siraha district during additional clashes. Notably, another individual injured during the earlier unrest in Sunsari also succumbed to their injuries in Koshi province. The unrest appears to have broadened its scope, forcing authorities to impose more stringent measures.

Moreover, an incident occurred later that evening when a police constable named Narad Pariyar was shot by an unidentified assailant in Lahan municipality, sustaining injury to his right thigh. He is currently receiving medical care at a hospital in Biratnagar, underscoring the precarious security situation in the affected regions.

Political Consultations and Calls for Unity

In light of the escalating violence, Prime Minister Shah convened discussions with senior political leaders from Madhesh province on Friday. Attendees included notable figures such as Mahantha Thakur, Rajendra Mahato, C K Raut, Prabhu Shah, and Samim Ansari. The meetings primarily focused on the welfare of the Madhesi community and the ongoing development initiatives in the region.

Additionally, President Paudel released a statement urging all political entities, civil society groups, and the general populace to uphold peace, order, and national unity. In a televised address, Prime Minister Shah reassured the public that the government is committed to conducting a thorough investigation regarding the recent disturbances, promising accountability for those at fault.

In an effort to bolster security, the District Security Committee in the border district of Sarlahi has mandated that individuals crossing into Nepal present valid identification documents. Authorities aim to implement extensive security measures to prevent further unrest from spreading and to stabilise the volatile situation across the nation.

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