The agitating Madhes-based parties have continued their protest programmes at Nepal-India border points on the second day as well.

Samyukta Loktantrik Madhesi Morcha (SLMM) activists staged sit-in at Miteri Bridge between Birgunj and Raxaul, protesting against the new constitution. They are staying under tarpaulins to avoid sunlight and served breakfast and lunch by Raxaul residents.

Superintendent of Police Dibesh Lohani said security personnel removed protesters from Nepal’s territory. “The activists moved to the Indian side and pelted stones at security personnel,” he said.

Likewise, SLMM cadres prohibited journalists to cover news at Madar customs point in Khairatoka, Siraha. They also tried to manhandle Post reporter Dev Narayan Sah who reached the site to prepare news reports on trade blockade.

In Mahottari too, Morcha cadres staged sit-in at Malibara, Matihani and Samasi customs points. SLMM supporters also picketed Jatahi check-point in Janakpur, obstructing vehicular movement in the area. They were also accompanied by women supporters.

Madhesh Aandolan Sangharsha Samiti and SLMM leaders said they will focus on protest programmes along the highway in Siraha starting Friday and that they will sleep on the road to obstruct traffic movement.

Meanwhile, UCPN (Maoist) leader Baburam Bhattarai cancelled his plan to visit Janakpur after the SLMM decided to prohibit him from arriving in Janakpur. The SLMM along with other protesting outfits have announced that they will not allow lawmakers, who signed the new constitution, to enter Janakpur. Bhattarai was preparing to visit Janakpur on September 27 to visit local leader and discuss his plan to form a new party.

In Kailali, local authorities lifted curfew in district headquarters Dhangadi on Friday. The “prohibited zone” order, however, is still in place. Curfew orders were issued in the area following Tikapur clash a month ago. Chief District Officer Mohan Chapagain said they are yet to decide whether the curfew order will be lifted in the coming days as well.

Petrol bomb goes off

MORANG: An unidentified group exploded a petrol bomb at Mahendra Morang Campus in Biratnagar on Thursday night. Police said around four people hurled the bomb towards the campus and ran away. The explosion damaged the examination section of the college.

(With inputs from our local correspondents)