Political Outreach, Security Measures Bring Gradual Calm to Southern Nepal
Tensions in parts of Nepal’s Madhesh and Koshi provinces are gradually easing following a series of all-party consultations, strengthened security measures, and community-led peace initiatives. Security forces remain on high alert after several days of unrest triggered by local communal disputes, with curfews still in place in parts of Sunsari, Siraha, Saptari and Dhanusha, while restrictions on public gatherings continue in Parsa. The Nepali Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force have been deployed in sensitive areas to maintain law and order, and authorities have detained 38 people accused of inciting violence and disturbing public peace.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah held separate meetings with Madhesh-based political leaders and lawmakers, stressing that the government’s priorities are to provide relief to affected families, ensure public safety, and conduct an impartial investigation into the incidents. Political leaders called for stronger local dialogue mechanisms to prevent future conflicts and emphasised the importance of addressing underlying grievances through sustained engagement. Meanwhile, Home Minister Sudan Gurung’s visit to affected districts helped facilitate agreements with victims’ families and community representatives.
Across the affected regions, local administrations, religious leaders, civil society organisations and business groups have launched peace-building activities, including peace marches, community meetings and interfaith prayers. Authorities say these combined efforts are helping restore public confidence, with dialogue, cooperation and mutual trust remaining central to maintaining lasting peace and communal harmony.
