Communal tension has increased in parts of Nepal that share a border with India, leading to tight security measures and the sealing of border routes. Protests began in Birgunj, a town in Nepal’s Parsa district, after a video with alleged religious content went viral on social media. As the situation worsened, the local administration imposed a curfew in Birgunj, which is located close to Raxaul in Bihar.

Due to growing unrest and safety concerns, India has completely sealed its border with Nepal in the affected areas. All cross-border movement has been stopped, except for emergency services. Indian security agencies are on high alert to prevent any spillover of violence.

The tension started after two Muslim men from the Kamala Municipality in Nepal’s Dhanusha district allegedly posted a video on social media. The men, identified as Haider Ansari and Amanat Ansari, were accused of making remarks that hurt the religious sentiments of certain communities. The video spread quickly online and triggered anger among locals.

Soon after, residents reportedly caught the two men and handed them over to the police, saying the video could disturb communal harmony. However, the situation took a more serious turn when a mosque was vandalised in the Sakhuwa Maran area of Kamala. This incident further inflamed tensions and led to protests in different parts of the region.

During the demonstrations, members of some Hindu organisations alleged that offensive remarks were made against their deities, which added to the anger. The protests later turned violent in Birgunj, with protestors throwing stones at police personnel and damaging a local police station. Police said they had to fire several tear gas shells to control the crowd and restore order.

To prevent further violence, authorities imposed a curfew in Birgunj and increased police presence. Security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely. On the Indian side, security has been tightened along the India-Nepal border. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has sealed the border completely.

Movement of civilians has been stopped, except for emergency cases. Extra checks are being carried out at the Maitri Bridge, which connects India and Nepal. Dog squads have also been deployed to strengthen security. Patrolling has been increased in nearby border areas such as Sahadewa, Mahadewa, Pantoka, Siwan Tola, and Musharwa to prevent any untoward incident.

Meanwhile, many Indian workers living in Nepal have started returning home due to the unrest. Rakesh, an Indian migrant worker, said all shops and markets in Birgunj were closed. He added that it was unsafe to stay and that he would return to work only after the situation becomes normal. Authorities on both sides remain alert as efforts continue to maintain peace.