- Protests erupt over desecration of mosques by Hindu extremists.
- Police arrest several protesters after clashes in Birgunj.
- Security forces ordered to open fire on curfew violators.
A curfew was imposed in Birgunj, a town in southern Nepal bordering India, after protests erupted over the vandalism and desecration of a mosque by Hindu extremists, sparking clashes between protesters and police.
Hindu extremists had attacked the mosque on Sunday and carried out vandalism and looting, infuriating and deeply distressing the local Muslim community.
A large number of Muslims took to the streets to protest the desecration of Dhanusha’s Kamala Commune, prompting the police to use tear gas to disperse protesters, while several protesters were arrested.
Following the protests, the Parsa district administration issued a curfew banning public movement on the streets throughout the city, as well as restricting all types of gatherings and demonstrations, according to local media.
Security forces have also been authorized to open fire on those violating the curfew, officials confirmed.
Birgunj is about 130 kilometers south of Kathmandu and is an important entry point for fuel, goods and supplies from India.
Indian authorities have also tightened security and completely sealed the border with Nepal in view of the tense atmosphere in Birgunj, the reports added.
Clashes between Hindus and Muslims are uncommon in predominantly Hindu Nepal, where most Muslims live in the southern border areas.
