Communal Tension Erupts in Nepal, India Seals Border

Communal unrest has flared in parts ofNepal bordering India, prompting ahigh-security alertand acurfew in Birgunj, Parsa district. The violence erupted after a video posted on social media by two Muslim men,Haider Ansari and Amanat Ansari, from Kamala Municipality in Dhanusha district, allegedly contained remarks offensive to certain religious communities. While the men were handed over to police by locals, tensions escalated after a mosque in Sakhuwa Maran was vandalised.

Protests quickly turned violent, with demonstratorspelting stones, vandalising a police station, and prompting authorities to deploy tear gas to control the crowds. Hindu groups also alleged derogatory comments against their deities, further inflaming the situation.

In response,India has completely sealed its borderwith Nepal, halting all cross-border movement except for emergency services. Security forces, including theSashastra Seema Bal (SSB), have increased patrols at key points like theMaitri Bridge, and dog squads have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents. Other border areas, including Sahadewa, Mahadewa, Pantoka, Siwan Tola, and Musharwa, are also under tight surveillance.

The unrest has prompted manyIndian migrant workers in Nepal to return home, as shops and markets in Birgunj remain closed and the security situation continues to deteriorate. Authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance while closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.