KATHMANDU – With Nepal’s parliamentary elections looming on March 5, tensions have erupted in the border district of Rautahat, particularly in Gaur municipality. Violent clashes between two communities in Ward 6’s Sapguda area prompted authorities to impose a strict curfew, raising fears of broader unrest just days before voters head to the polls.
Former Prime Minister and Nepali Communist Party (NCP) Joint Coordinator Madhav Kumar Nepal, a longtime representative of Rautahat in federal parliament, expressed deep concern over the recent flare-up. In a public appeal issued today, he urged Hindus and Muslims to exercise restraint and end their dispute amicably.
‘Emphasizing religious tolerance is crucial,’ Nepal stated. ‘We must respect each other’s faiths, cultures, and festivals to live in harmony. Communal violence is unacceptable under any circumstances.’ He highlighted that Hindus and Muslims are complementary to one another, calling for dialogue as the only path to resolution.
Nepal also pressed the government to prioritize the safety of local residents and ensure their lives are protected. As the NCP leader gears up to contest from Rautahat-1 in the upcoming elections, he revealed ongoing discussions with the Home Minister to normalize the situation following incidents of arson, vandalism, and stone-pelting.
According to local media reports, the conflict ignited during a wedding procession in Sabgadh when an argument between members of the two communities escalated into full-blown violence. Stones were hurled, and a vehicle was set ablaze. Despite a six-point agreement reached on Friday evening to defuse prior tensions, clashes resumed Saturday morning around 9 AM, leading to the curfew from 1 PM.
District Magistrate Dinesh Sagar Bhusal confirmed the curfew will remain in effect until further notice to prevent further deterioration. ‘The situation is stabilizing,’ he assured. ‘We will lift restrictions as soon as conditions improve.’ The curfew zone spans from Gaur Customs Office eastward to Mudbalwa Gate, westward to Lalkaiya embankment, and northward to Bam Canal area.
Security has been bolstered with deployments from the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force. Limited relaxations allow essential movement between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM. Officials continue to appeal for calm amid restricted access to the area.
As Nepal approaches a critical electoral juncture, this incident underscores the fragility of communal harmony in border regions, where historical sensitivities run deep. Madhav Nepal’s intervention serves as a timely reminder of the need for unity to safeguard democracy.