Nepal Violence: Government Signs 7 Point Pact With Families Of Deceased, Madrasa Investigation Ordered

In a significant development following the communal unrest in the Sunsari district of Nepal, a comprehensive 7 point agreement has been reached between the Nepal government and the families of the two youths who lost their lives during police firing. The situation in Sunsari had escalated into severe violence, leading to the deaths of two individuals and causing widespread tension across the region, while the agreement aims to address the grievances of the bereaved families and restore order in the affected areas.

Details of the Agreement and Signatories

The agreement was finalized late Thursday night between the government representatives and the family members of the deceased, Omprakash Mehta and Jaiprakash Mehta. The pact was signed by the Minister for Home Affairs, Sudan Gurung, on behalf of the government. From the families' side, the signatories included Krishnadev Mehta, the father of Omprakash Mehta, and Naresh Mehta, the father of Jaiprakash Mehta. According to Bechan Prasad Mehta, the Chairman of Dewanganj Gaunpalika, this agreement marks a crucial step toward justice for the victims who died during the police firing in Kaptanganj, located within the Dewanganj Gaunpalika of Sunsari district.

The 7 Points of the Agreement

The consensus reached between the government and the families includes several critical points aimed at providing relief and ensuring accountability.

• The Nepal government will immediately initiate the process to declare both the deceased individuals as martyrs and will provide a relief assistance of 10 lakh Nepali rupees to each of their families.
• The government has provided an assurance that a fair and effective investigation into the incident will be conducted, and strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty.
• An immediate investigation into the legal status of the Madrasa located in Dewanganj Gaunpalika will be launched. The government has committed to bringing any culprits residing there within the ambit of the law.
• One eligible member from each of the two grieving families will be provided with an opportunity for government employment.
• It has been agreed that the recommendations and suggestions included in the report of the committee formed to investigate the incident will be implemented as soon as possible in accordance with the law.
• In coordination with the local government, a memorial park will be constructed at a suitable location in the area in memory of the deceased.
• Following the agreement between the government and the families, the funeral program for both the deceased has been scheduled for 2 PM today.

Context of Communal Violence in Sunsari

The unrest in Sunsari district, which borders India, began during a religious procession. On Thursday, this dispute escalated into full-scale communal violence. Members of two communities came face-to-face, leading to widespread stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism. During the chaos, dozens of vehicles were set on fire, and several buildings were torched. Shops and houses were also targeted and vandalized by the mobs. In response to the deteriorating situation, the administration has imposed a curfew in 4 districts. The army has taken charge in the violence-affected areas and is continuously conducting flag marches. Surveillance is being maintained from both the ground and the air. Meanwhile, Nepal's PM Balendra Shah has appealed to the people for peace and has promised to ensure strict punishment for those responsible for the violence.