Authorities Address Tension Following Idol Immersion Incident in Rautahat

Rautahat. The District Administration Office Rautahat has expressed serious concern over the incident in Rampurkhap village, Paroha Municipality-1, Rautahat, where an attempt was made to create discord between two communities during the immersion of a Saraswati Puja idol.

The administration stated in a released appeal that it has drawn attention to activities aimed at inciting the local community and creating misunderstanding between communities. The administration informed that following the incident, discussions were held with local leaders involving political parties to resolve the emerging problems.

DSP Bishnu Pradip Basnyal, spokesperson for the District Police Office Rautahat, stated that the situation became tense on Monday afternoon after the Muslim community allegedly hurled stones at a group proceeding for the immersion of the Saraswati Mata idol. Three people were injured in the stone-pelting, he informed. He also shared that police fired 68 rounds of tear gas to bring the situation under control. Police have stated that one person has been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the incident.

A large contingent of Nepal Police and Armed Police Force has been deployed to prevent further conflict between the two communities. The District Police Office Rautahat stated that tight security arrangements have been made in the area to prevent renewed tension.

Meanwhile, the District Administration Office has urged all parties to exercise restraint to maintain unity, peace, and harmony amidst religious, social, and cultural diversity. The appeal called upon political parties, elected representatives, local levels, social and religious leaders, civil society, journalists, teachers, students, youth, employees, security personnel, and all residents of Rautahat to play a responsible role. The appeal issued by Chief District Officer Dinesh Sagar Bhusal also requested against activities that disrupt peace and urged against following rumors.

Separately, Firdaus Alam, the House of Representatives candidate for Nepali Congress from Rautahat Constituency-2, has demanded that the local administration investigate the incident thoroughly and bring the culprits to justice. Expressing suspicion that some elements might attempt to influence voters by creating communal tension during the election period, he stressed the need for a minute investigation into the incident.