KATHMANDU: Tensions have spread to several parts of Sunsari following the violent clash in Kaptanganj of Dewanganj Rural Municipality-3 on Sunday night, with reports of arson, vandalism, looting and assaults emerging from different areas.
According to local residents, shops in the Koshi Katan area were vandalised and set on fire, while looting was also reported at some locations. Protesters blocked the East-West Highway and burned tyres on several roads during demonstrations.
In response, the local administration imposed a curfew in the Dewanganj area and deployed security personnel to restore order.
Residents also reported heightened tensions in Bhokraha Narsingh Rural Municipality, where groups of youths from two different communities allegedly hurled stones at each other in wards 5, 6 and 7. Locals claimed the affected area lies away from the main market, delaying the arrival of security forces.
Further incidents were reported along the East-West Highway in Koshi Rural Municipality-4, where grocery shops in the embankment area were allegedly set on fire and looted. Local representatives said three people were involved in the incident, adding that protests were continuing despite security agencies being informed.
Residents also alleged that several people in the Koshi embankment area were assaulted. Karim Ansari of Bhokraha Narsingh Rural Municipality-6 was reportedly attacked after assailants entered his home, while some houses were also allegedly set on fire.
Local residents have urged the government to take immediate and effective measures to prevent further violence. They have called for an impartial investigation and legal action against those responsible, stressing that violence against innocent people from any community is unacceptable.
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