Violence erupts in Birgunj during Hanuman Jayanti procession

KATHMANDU: Tensions have flared in Birgunj, Parsa, after clashes broke out between two communities during the Hanuman Jayanti procession on Saturday afternoon.

The violent altercation left dozens injured, including personnel from the Nepal Police and Armed Police Force, as well as several civilians.

The incident began around 4:50 PM near the Shri Ram Hall in Birgunj Metropolitan City-2, close to the Jama Masjid.

According to the police, the confrontation began when stones were suddenly thrown as the procession reached the vicinity of the mosque, escalating into a full-scale clash between the two groups.

Parsa’s Police Chief, Superintendent of Police (SP) Gautam Mishra, confirmed that he, along with 17 other Nepal Police officers, sustained injuries during the incident. “I have an injury on my right hand,” SP Mishra said, adding, “Some of the other officers appear to have sustained serious injuries.” Inspector Niraj Choulagai of the Birta Police Station was also among the injured police officers.

In addition to the police officers, eight personnel from the Armed Police Force, including Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Devendra Bahadur Singh, were also hurt in the clash.

The violent stone-throwing also left 12 civilians injured, according to the police.

Dr. Udaynarayan Singh, spokesperson for Narayani Hospital in Birgunj, reported that a total of 43 people, including police officers and civilians, are currently receiving medical treatment. “The number of injured has now exceeded 43,” he said. “Some have been discharged after receiving basic treatment, while others are still undergoing care in the hospital.” According to Dr. Singh, most of the injuries involve head and chest wounds from stones or bricks.

Injured undergoing treatment at Narayani Hospital.

Saroj Singh, the chief of Surya Hospital, also confirmed that DSP Singh and other injured individuals are receiving treatment at their facility. “One person has a broken leg, and they are currently undergoing treatment,” Singh said, adding that the rest of the injured have received basic care and returned home.

In response to the escalating violence, the Parsa District Administration Office imposed a curfew in Birganj starting from Saturday evening until Sunday morning at 12 AM.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid falling for rumors.

Local law enforcement, along with additional security personnel from both the Nepal Police and Armed Police Force, have been deployed to ensure safety and prevent further unrest.

An investigation into the causes of the clash is ongoing.