Muslim and Hindu religious leaders in Banke have issued a call for restraint and calm after Monday’s clash during a rally that was organised to celebrate the birth anniversary of prophet Mohammad at Matehiya VDC. One person died and 12 others were injured in the incident.

Local Muslim leader Maulan Abdaul Jabbar Manjuri and Hindu leader Chandannath Yogi issued a joint statement on Tuesday, calling everyone to uphold peace and social harmony. 

They have also asked the authorities to conduct a fair investigation into the incident and provide free treatment to the injured persons.

A large number of security personnel were mobilised in Matehiya on Tuesday to check untoward incidents.

Superintendent of Police Tek Prasad Rai said the situation in the area was fairly calm throughout the day.