A Dalit family from Aurahi Rural Municipality in Siraha has lodged an official complaint against local authorities for demolishing their home under the pretext of a Mahayagya (grand Hindu ritual).

Accompanied by legal representatives and Dalit rights activists, Deepak Mallik Dom and his family approached the District Police Office on Saturday seeking justice.

Aurahi Rural Municipality chair Shivaji Yadav, former ward chair Dilip Yadav, and event organiser Bajrangi Baba allegedly ordered the bulldozing of Deepak’s home. The family accused the organisers of displacing them stating that Dalits’ presence near the Mahayagya site would make the venue impure.

Following widespread outrage, police apprehended municipality chair Yadav and former ward chair Yadav on Friday evening, while Bajrangi Baba remains on the run. The police have assured that efforts are ongoing to arrest him.

"We expect swift legal action against those responsible for this blatant act of caste-based discrimination," said a Dalit rights activist accompanying the family.

The family, who had been residing in the area for three decades, was previously provided a government-constructed home under the Janata Aawas Programme. However, the same local authority that granted them shelter has now evicted them. The forced displacement has left them in a makeshift hut.

The incident has drawn condemnation from human rights organisations and political leaders. Activists argue that the case is a clear violation of Nepal’s constitutional protections against caste-based discrimination. "This is not just about one family; it is about the systemic oppression that Dalits continue to face," said a representative of the National Dalit Commission.

Meanwhile, local police have confirmed that they are investigating the incident thoroughly. Chief District Officer Basudev Dahal stated, "We are gathering all necessary evidence and will take legal action against those responsible. No one is above the law."

The incident has sparked national debate, with many urging the government to take stronger measures against caste-based discrimination and violence.

The Janakpur-based provincial office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched an investigation into the incident.

Also, lawmakers in the federal parliament raised the issue demanding a fair investigation and actions against those involved in the caste-based discrimination.