The vandalism of a mosque in Nepal has triggered communal tension in Birgunj, a city bordering India, prompting authorities to impose prohibitory orders in sensitive areas.
The restrictions were enforced on Monday following violent protests over a social media video containing alleged religious content. The unrest erupted in Birgunj, located in Parsa district, a day after demonstrations turned violent.
The Parsa District Administration Office (DAO) imposed prohibitory orders across key areas of Birgunj Metropolitan City from 1 pm local time until further notice. The order bans all forms of gatherings, assemblies, processions, and demonstrations to maintain law and order.
“Any kind of gathering, assembly, procession and demonstration have been completely prohibited within the designated areas to maintain peace and security,” the DAO said in a notice signed by Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal.
According to the notice, the restricted zone stretches from Bus Park in the east to Sirsia Bridge in the west, and from Power House Chowk in the north to Shankaracharya Gate in the south. Authorities warned that violators would face strict legal action.
On Sunday, protesters reportedly burnt tyres and vandalised a local police post in Birgunj while demonstrating against the vandalism of a mosque in Dhanusha district a day earlier.
Police said the mosque in Dhanusha was vandalised by a group of youths allegedly reacting to what they described as anti-Hindu messages circulated on social media by two Muslim youths, who have since been taken into custody.
