An improvised explosive device was set off outside the office of Biratnagar Mayor Bhim Parajuli on Sunday afternoon.

The office walls, windows, furniture and the rear windshield of Parajuli’s car were damaged in the explosion.

Police said there were no casualties as the incident occurred during lunch hour.  

Mayor Parajuli, his staff and a few service seekers were inside the office at the time of the blast.

“I was on my way to the mayor’s office when I was startled by a loud bang. Soon, there was smoke everywhere,” said Deputy Mayor Indira Karki.

Superintendent of Police Manoj KC said eight suspects were being questioned in connection to the incident.

Police are also studying the CCTV footage recovered from the office premises of Biratnagar Metropolitan City.

Jai Krishna Goit-led Tarai Janatantrik Mukti Morcha (Revolutionary) contacted the Post in the wake of the blast and owned up to the attack.

The underground armed outfit sent a statement to one of our correspondents in Province 2, claiming its involvement in the incident.

The statement mentioned that the Morcha planted the IED to send out the message that its activities were not just limited in Saptari and Siraha districts of Province 2.