RismadarVoice Reporters, July 31, 2026
Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah has appealed for calm following deadly clashes between Hindu and Muslim communities in the country’s southern region that have claimed the lives of three people.
In his first major national address since assuming office in March, Shah urged citizens to remain peaceful and work together to restore stability amid rising communal tensions.
“I, on behalf of the government, sincerely appeal to citizens, civil society, religious communities, political leaders, parties and the media to exercise patience and restraint while promoting peace, harmony, brotherhood and national unity,” the prime minister said.
The violence began on Sunday in Sunsari District, near Nepal’s border with India, after a dispute over loud music and religious flags during a Hindu procession escalated into clashes between members of the Hindu and Muslim communities.
According to police spokesman Abi Narayan Kafle, officers opened fire while attempting to disperse the violent crowd, resulting in the deaths of two men. A third person was killed on Thursday during a protest in neighbouring Siraha District, despite a curfew being in effect.
Authorities have since imposed curfews across Sunsari and surrounding districts to prevent further violence and restore public order.
Prime Minister Shah assured the public that the government would conduct a fair and transparent investigation into the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
Police said security personnel remain on high alert across the affected areas to prevent further clashes and protect lives and property.
“We have deployed officers across the region and are working to maintain order while using the minimum force necessary,” Kafle said.
Nepal is a predominantly Hindu nation, with Hindus accounting for about 80 per cent of the population. However, the country’s southern plains are home to significant Muslim communities, where communal tensions have occasionally flared in recent years.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as efforts intensify to restore peace and prevent further violence.
