There are concerning reports of violence and religious tension in Rautahat. Local administration has mobilized several hundreds of police personnel and imposed indefinite curfew to avoid any untoward incident in Ghiura, Ishnath Municipality of Rautahat district. This development follows the clashes that erupted at Ishnath-7 Ghiuratol after a dispute arose between two communities during the desecration of idols on the day after Saraswati Puja. Although the local administration, police and political parties and social leaders of various parties are actively working to settle the dispute, the situation reportedly remains tense as the dispute remains unresolved. While the curfew imposed from 5 PM on Saturday continues, security personnel in large numbers have been mobilized to tighten the security. DIG Yagya Binod Pokharel of Nepal Police Madhesh Province, DIG Dipendra Shah of Armed Police Force Madhesh Province along with the heads of other security agencies in the district have reached the incident site. For a country that has stood as a beacon of religious tolerance and coexistence for centuries, this development is certainly not good. All stakeholders concerned must work towards diffusing the situation and uphold the unique harmony that exists among our people.
Former President Bhandari stresses social harmony
It is concerning that disturbing incidents have unfolded in the recent past in various parts of the country, where individuals have propagated hatred based on religion, caste, and sect. These actions not only disrupt social harmony but also challenge the very essence of Nepal's pluralistic society. It is imperative for every citizen to unequivocally condemn such actions and work diligently to bridge the gaps that have surfaced. What local administration including police are doing in Rautahat are steps in the right direction. This situation demands local administration to remain further alert and take appropriate administrative measures to discourage elements that are bent on disturbing religious and communal harmony subsisting in our society for ages. All parties concerned must be aware that some vested groups are active in disturbing social harmony that exists in Nepal. Such attempts must be thwarted for the well-being of the country and the people. Failure to thwart these elements will send our country toward a fresh round of instability and violence.
We must recognize the fact that religious and communal unity aren't merely an aspiration; they are a necessity for the stability and prosperity of our nation. We stand at a pivotal juncture where our actions today will define the trajectory of our society tomorrow. Let us heed the call for unity, understanding, and cooperation. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the age-old values that have made Nepal a unique and harmonious nation. It is our duty, as responsible citizens, to preserve and strengthen the religious and communal harmony that has been our legacy for generations.
