Parsa administration eases curfew clampdown in Birgunj; Madheshi protesters continue obstruction at Miteri bridge

The curfew imposed by the local administration in Birgunj was eased till 7p.m. today. The curfew clamped down since the day before yesterday following clashes between security personnel and protesting cadres of the Madhehsi Front was lifted from 8 a.m. to 11a.m. this morning, the duration of ease which was extended until 3p.m. The same duration was prolonged till 7p.m. However, the curfew has come into effect again after 7p.m. today. The administration of Parsa informed the restrictive order was lifted so as to facilitate local residents in daily activities including buying of consumer items. Police had to resort to open-fire in Birgunj yesterday after protesting cadres of the Madheshi Front tried to defy the curfew imposed in the place by the local administration. Police had fired three rounds in the air to contain the situation after protesters started demonstrating at Brahma Chowk, which was ensued by dismissal of the cadres. With growing security sensitivity in Birgunj, the local administration had clamped down curfew from 3p.m. since Monday in areas including Miteri bridge, main road leading to the Parsa border, bypass road section and the road section between the power house and Radhemai road. Despite the curfew orders in place, cadres of the Front continued their obstruction at Miteri bridge today as well. Meanwhile, family members have claimed the body of Indian national Ram Ashish Ram who was killed in police firing in course of standoff on Monday.