- Protests break out over the desecration of a mosque by Hindu extremists.
- Police arrest several protesters after clashes in Birgunj.
- Security forces ordered to open fire on curfew violators.
A curfew was imposed in Birgunj, a city in southern Nepal bordering India, following protests that broke out over the vandalism and desecration of a mosque by Hindu extremists, leading to clashes between protesters and police.
Hindu extremists attacked the mosque on Sunday, carrying out vandalism and looting, leaving the local Muslim community enraged and deeply distressed.
A large number of Muslims took to the streets to protest against the desecration incident in Kamala township in Dhanusha, prompting the police to use tear gas to disperse the protesters, while several protesters were detained.
Following the protests, the Parsa district administration issued curfew orders, prohibiting public movement on streets across the city, as well as restricting all types of gatherings and demonstrations, according to local media reports.
Security forces have also been authorized to open fire on those violating curfew, officials confirmed.
Birgunj is located about 130 kilometers south of Kathmandu and is a major entry point for fuel, goods and supplies from India.
Indian authorities have also tightened security and completely closed the border with Nepal in view of the tense atmosphere in Birgunj, reports added.
Clashes between Hindus and Muslims are rare in predominantly Hindu Nepal, where most Muslims live in the southern border regions.
