Two people have died after police opened fire during protests in Itahari on Monday.

One person was killed on the spot in front of the Itahari Sub-metropolitan City Office, in Sunsari while another, critically injured and admitted to BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Dharan, later succumbed to injuries.

The demonstration, which began around noon, escalated despite authorities imposing a curfew at 3:30pm. Police used tear gas and live bullets after protesters refused to disperse, local officials said.

Protests erupted across Kathmandu and other major cities, including Pokhara, Butwal, Bhairahawa, and Bharatpur on Monday, prompting clashes between demonstrators and security forces.

The incidents have raised concerns among human rights groups about the use of excessive force. Hospitals reported treating dozens of injured protesters, with several in critical condition.

At least 16 people lost their lives during the protest in Kathmandu and Itahari as the protests spread to various towns across the country.