Amnesty International Nepal has called for an immediate investigation into the use of excessive force by security personnel while controlling a demonstration after rape and murder of a six-year-old girl in Mahottari.

A person was killed and two others injured when police on Tuesday baton-charged and opened fire on the demonstrators.

“It’s deeply worrying to see yet another instance of excessive use of force by the security personnel while controlling a demonstration leading to death and severe injuries of protesters in Nepal," said Nirajan Thapaliya, director of Amnesty International Nepal, in a statement released by the human rights watchdog on Thursday. "There must be an immediate investigation into the incident and steps must be taken to ensure that those responsible are brought to account."

The six-year-old girl of Bardibas Municipality Ward No 14 had gone missing on Sunday evening. Her body wrapped in a sack was recovered near her residence on Monday night.

According to police, initial investigations showed that the minor was raped and subsequently murdered.

On Tuesday, Baridbas locals took to the streets demanding action against the guilty. The three individuals had sustained injuries when police opened fire and baton-charged protesters to contain the situation. Of the two persons with bullet injuries who were airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment, one died at Grande Hospital on Tuesday night.

Police have arrested a 25-year-old man, who is the victim’s neighbour, for his alleged involvement in the crime.

The situation in Bardibas remained tense on Wednesday after locals continued demonstration despite prohibitory orders issued by the local administration. The situation became worse after the news of the death of one of the injured protesters became public.

Protesters also demanded martyrdom for the protester who died in police firing and compensation for his family and those who were injured.

On Thursday, the United Nations in Nepal also condemned the rape and murder of the minor.

Issuing a statement, the UN Office of the Resident Coordinator urged relevant authorities to urgently follow due process and ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable.