Defying a prohibitory order issued by the district administration, a group of youths staged demonstrations in various parts of Birgunj on Wednesday morning, demanding the immediate release of two individuals arrested in connection with Saturday’s vandalism during a Hanuman Jayanti procession.

On Tuesday, Parsa Police had arrested four individuals for allegedly inciting communal disharmony and vandalism. Claiming that two of them were innocent, demonstrators burned tyres in Parwanipur, Pratima Chowk, Ghadiarwa Chowk, and in front of National Trading, among other locations.

Following Saturday’s incident, the Parsa District Administration initially enforced curfew in parts of Birgunj and later on Monday issued a prohibitory order banning gatherings and protests. However, demonstrations continued for the second consecutive day, violating the order.

Police used batons to disperse protesters who attempted to stage a sit-in outside the District Police Office on Tuesday evening. The demonstrators later burnt tyres at Ghantaghar and Adarshnagar Chowk.

Superintendent of Police Gautam Mishra said the arrests were made to maintain law and order based on a five-point agreement reached during an all-party meeting. According to police, four people were arrested on Tuesday, and one more person was taken into custody on Wednesday for their alleged involvement in Saturday’s incident.

Parsa Police Spokesperson Deputy Superintendent of Police Kishor Lamsal confirmed the latest arrest. Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal said discussions with protest leaders began at 11am on Wednesday and were ongoing at the District Administration Office with the participation of top security officials.