National
SLMM cadres continue stir
The local administration in Saptari lifted curfew from 3pm on Tuesday. The curfew was clamped following the violent clashes between security forces and protesters in various places since Saturday night.The local administration in Saptari lifted curfew from 3pm on Tuesday. The curfew was clamped following the violent clashes between security forces and protesters in various places since Saturday night.
Despite the curfew, the supporters of the agitating Samyukta Loktantrik Madhesi Morcha (SLMM) had continued their demonstrations in the various parts of the district. They allegedly torched the Land Survey Office and the party office of Nepali Congress (NC) on Monday night. Sunil Jha, the district coordinator of SLMM, denied the allegation that the Morcha cadres had torched the NC party office.
Hospitals in Saptari remained closed to protest the police attack on the staff and patients of Sagarmatha Zonal Hospital. Many patients have been facing difficulties after the hospitals halted their services.
Three persons were killed on Saturday and Sunday in police firing as violent clashes ensued when security forces were clearing the highway blocked by protesters in Saptari. Superintendent of Police Bhim Dhakal said there were some security lapses while handling the incident. “I have been committed not to repeat the similar lapses, but, protesters should also be careful in maintaining peace,” said Dhakal.
Meanwhile, Raj Kumar Lekhi, the coordinator of Tharu Kalyankari Sabha, has called for unity among all indigenous minority groups.
Addressing a press meet in Siraha, Lekhi claimed that the demands of all minority groups are the same and they should struggle together.
Chure Bhawar intervenes sit-in
Activists of Chure Bhawar Rastriya Ekata Party disrupted the SLMM sit-in programme in Sarlahi on Tuesday. Chure Bhawar supporters pelted stones at SLMM activists who were staging the sit-in on the East West Highway. Police intervened to avert a clash between the two sides. Some SLMM and Chure Bhawar supporters were injured as police resorted to lathicharge to take the situation under control. Similarly, dozens of vehicles were vandalised when the Chure Bhawar supporters hurled stones towards the SLMM activists. Chief District Officer Meghnath Kafle said the guilty persons will be brought to justice.