World News
Curfew in Rautahat: Tension Grips Nepal’s Southern Plains Days Before Crucial Nepal General Elections
Just days before Nepal heads into crucial general elections, tension continues to grip the southern plains. An indefinite curfew remains in place in Gaur Municipality of Rautahat district following a communal clash that has left the area on edge.
Just days before Nepal heads into crucial general elections, tension continues to grip the southern plains. An indefinite curfew remains in place in Gaur Municipality of Rautahat district following a communal clash that has left the area on edge.
The District Administration Office in Rautahat imposed the curfew on Saturday afternoon after violence erupted in Ward 6, Sabgadh. Although authorities briefly relaxed restrictions for two hours on Sunday morning, the curfew was reinstated from 8:30 am and remains in effect until further notice.
What Led to the Violence?
According to local officials, the dispute reportedly began during a wedding procession in Sabgadh. An argument between members of two communities quickly escalated into stone-throwing. Several people were injured, and tensions deepened when a vehicle was set on fire during the clashes.
A six-point agreement had been reached between the two sides on Friday evening in an attempt to calm the situation. However, fresh stone-pelting resumed around 9 am on Saturday, reigniting fears and forcing authorities to step in decisively.
Administration Tightens Security
Chief District Officer Dinesh Sagar Bhusal confirmed that all gatherings, rallies, meetings, and processions have been strictly prohibited under the curfew order.
Security forces, including personnel from Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force, have been deployed in large numbers across the affected areas. Authorities say they are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.
The restricted zone stretches from Mudbalwa Gate in the east to Lalbakaiya Dam in the west, Bam Canal in the north, and the Gaur Customs Office boundary in the south.
Local residents describe an atmosphere of uncertainty and anxiety as businesses remain shut and movement is heavily restricted. Many families are choosing to stay indoors, hoping for peace to return soon.
Elections Around the Corner
The unrest comes at a sensitive political moment for the Himalayan nation. Nepal is scheduled to hold general elections on March 5, where voters will elect 275 members to the House of Representatives.
These elections carry added significance as they are the first since last year’s deadly protests that led to the fall of the coalition government led by K P Sharma Oli.
Currently, Sushila Karki is serving as Nepal’s interim prime minister. Political analysts believe the stability of the southern plains could play a crucial role in voter turnout and the overall electoral atmosphere.
A Delicate Situation
With memories of past unrest still fresh, authorities are urging the public to exercise restraint and avoid spreading misinformation. Community leaders are also being encouraged to promote dialogue and calm.
For now, the focus remains on restoring normalcy in Gaur. As election day approaches, the coming days will be critical in determining whether peace holds in one of Nepal’s most sensitive regions.
