In Dewanganj, Sunsari, clashes between two communities have resulted in four fatalities along with significant physical and economic damage. A total of 112 homes and 61 vehicles have been damaged in Sunsari, while a teenager was killed in Siraha amid considerable property losses. An investigation committee appointed by the Ministry of Home Affairs is probing the incident and has reached a consensus to provide compensation to the affected families. July 10, Kathmandu.
The tension that began in Dewanganj Rural Municipality-3, Kaptanganj of Sunsari between Hindu and Muslim communities escalated into a wider conflict affecting several other districts, causing both human casualties and extensive physical destruction. The dispute originated over issues relating to flag removal and amplified loudspeakers, initially resulting in one death that subsequently increased to four. The Kaptanganj incident has caused severe economic and physical damages. Authorities are currently recording statements and gathering evidence. According to reports so far, 112 homes and various physical structures have been damaged in Sunsari alone.
Among these 112 homes, 23 were permanent structures completely destroyed due to the communal tensions. Additionally, 34 temporary houses suffered damage, including 25 that were completely burnt down. Over 50 other houses and small shelters were also damaged. In terms of vehicles, 61 were affected; among them, 44 two-wheelers and 5 four-wheelers were completely destroyed, with another 64 vehicles sustaining various damages. A 15-year-old teenager named Ganesh Yadav lost his life in Siraha. Authorities have received requests from 50 individuals seeking police assistance. The AB Mal business in Siraha has filed a complaint demanding compensation amounting to NPR 250 million.
Besides Sunsari and Siraha, the unrest spread to Morang, Saptari, Dhanusha, and Parsa districts. DIG Om Adhikari of Madhesh Province stated that aside from Siraha, there has been no major physical damage reported in other Madhesh districts. Home Minister Sudhan Gurung met with families of the deceased and assured them of accountability for the perpetrators, provision of compensation, and the declaration of the victims as martyrs. Protests against the Sunsari incident have been held in districts including Siraha, Saptari, Morang, and Dhanusha. The violence resulting in four deaths also left many security personnel and civilians injured.
