Nepal's Sunsari District Extends Curfew Indefinitely After Communal Violence; PM Shah Expresses Grief

Source: PTI

Curfew has been extended indefinitely in parts of Nepal’s Sunsari district, which borders India, as Prime Minister Balendra Shah expressed grief over communal violence that left one person dead and several injured.

The restrictions were first imposed on Monday (July 27, 2026) after communal violence erupted on Sunday (July 26, 2026) in the Kaptangunj area.

Casualties and Police Response

One person was killed and more than a dozen people, including security personnel, were injured when police opened fire to disperse clashing groups. The violence followed a dispute during celebrations by two religious communities, police said.

Prime Minister’s Statement

In a social media post on Tuesday (July 28, 2026), Prime Minister Balendra Shah pledged:

• Justice for the bereaved family
• Compensation for those affected
• Action to bring those responsible to justice

Mr. Shah paid tribute to the person killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

"The government stands in deep solidarity with the affected families and reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice for them," he said.

"The death and injuries of citizens from gunfire by security personnel are matters of serious concern, and an investigation has been initiated," the Prime Minister added. He promised action against those found guilty.

The government is seriously reviewing the entire incident, and necessary decisions and corrective measures will be implemented, Mr. Shah said.

He urged citizens to remain restrained, refrain from provocation, anger, and retaliation, and contribute to maintaining social harmony, mutual trust, and tolerance.

Curfew Details

The local administration issued a fresh notice at 9 p.m. on Tuesday (July 28, 2026), extending curfew orders from the earlier five places to six areas in the district.

Key points of the curfew order:

• Duration: Indefinite, or until further notice
• Violators: Warned of legal action
• Prohibited activities: Any type of gathering, demonstration, sit-in, public meeting, and movement of people within the curfew zone

Areas Under Curfew

• East-West Highway within Itahari Sub-metropolitan City Ward No. 16 and 17
• East-West Highway within Ramdhuni Municipality Ward No. 1 and 5
• Entire areas of:
• Inaruwa Municipality
• Duhabi Municipality
• Bhokraha Narsingh Rural Municipality
• Koshi Rural Municipality
• Gadhi Rural Municipality
• Devangunj Rural Municipality
• Harihar Rural Municipality
• Barju Rural Municipality

Background

Sunsari, situated in southeastern Nepal along the border with India's Bihar, is a crucial transit and commercial corridor between the two countries.