Authorities have imposed a curfew in Birgunj, a southern Nepalese city near the Indian border, after tensions escalated between Hindu and Muslim communities.
The Parsa District Administration enforced the curfew following the vandalism of a mosque over the weekend. The orders ban movement, gatherings, and demonstrations. Officials warned that security forces could use lethal force if required.
Armed police and soldiers now patrol the city, located about 130 kilometres south of Kathmandu. Birgunj remains a vital gateway for trade and fuel between Nepal and India.
Authorities initially imposed the curfew in the evening. Although no major clashes or serious civilian injuries have been reported, officials have extended the restrictions due to ongoing tensions. Limited relaxation hours have been allowed under close monitoring.
#BREAKING : Violent clash broke out between two groups in Birgunj Nepal. 11 police officers injured. Local administration impose curfew in Birgunj.#Nepal #NepalCurfew #Birgunj #curfew pic.twitter.com/BxWpaPhhwd
— upuknews (@upuknews1) February 20, 2024Police officials have held meetings with religious leaders from both communities. They urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours.
How Birgunj Unrest Began
According to international media reports, a viral TikTok video reportedly triggered the unrest. The clip contained religious remarks that both communities found offensive.
Police, with support from residents, detained two youths accused of posting the video. Despite these arrests, unidentified individuals vandalised a mosque and desecrated religious books. This incident angered the local Muslim community and escalated protests.
Communal violence erupted in Nepal’s Birgunj after an anti-Hindu viral video sparked protests that turned violent.
Hindus came on street in protest and clashes followed. Mosque vandalised after stone pelting on hindu group.
Curfew imposed, India has sealed border crossings. pic.twitter.com/vxCWVv6OVC
— Globally Pop (@GloballyPop) January 6, 2026Muslim groups staged demonstrations on Sunday. Protesters blocked roads, burned tyres, and chanted slogans. Hindu groups later organised separate protests in response. As tensions rose, police used tear gas to disperse crowds. Authorities detained several demonstrators, and some officers sustained injuries during the clashes.
Communal clashes remain uncommon in Nepal, where the population is largely Hindu. Most Muslims live in the southern border regions, including Birgunj.
Officials continue to assess the situation while security forces maintain a strong presence. Authorities say they will review the curfew based on ground conditions and community cooperation.
