Nepal partially lifts curfews after deadly communal clashes

Authorities in southeastern Nepal have partially lifted curfews after nearly a week of deadly communal violence, though prohibitory orders remain in force as the region works to restore calm. The unrest, which began on July 26 in Sunsari district and spread to parts of Siraha and Dhanusha districts, resulted in at least three fatalities and dozens of injuries.

The initial clash erupted in the Sunsari town of Diwanganj, bordering India, late on July 26. Officials said a dispute over loud music and religious flags during a Hindu religious procession escalated into violence between Hindu and Muslim community members, leaving 25 people injured. Two men were shot and killed in Sunsari that same day. Sporadic clashes continued through the week, leading to a third death in Golbazar, Siraha district, on July 30.

In response to the escalating violence, local administrations imposed indefinite curfews and prohibitory orders across several towns. On July 31, officials began easing some restrictions, lifting curfews in 10 local bodies of Sunsari district, parts of Janakpur in Dhanusha, and Lahan in Siraha. However, a curfew remains in effect in Golbazar, Siraha, which saw some of the worst...