Civil Unrest Disrupts Operations in Simara Following Political Clashes

Simara in the Bara District remains in a state of heightened tension following violent confrontations between Gen Z activists and members of the CPN-UML party. The unrest, which began on Wednesday, has resulted in continued clashes with law enforcement, the violation of curfew orders, and significant disruption to local transportation and educational services. Police have utilized tear gas and aerial firing in an attempt to control the situation after protesters blocked the key Birgunj-Pathlaiya highway.

The conflict originated on Wednesday morning when Gen Z youths gathered at Simara Chowk to protest the scheduled arrival of senior CPN-UML leaders for a provincial assembly. Tensions escalated rapidly after a verbal dispute turned physical, with allegations that local Youth Association leader Arvind Sah assaulted a demonstrator. This incident triggered a wider confrontation, prompting protesters to surround the Simara Airport.

Due to the security breach at the airport perimeter, airlines were forced to cancel scheduled flights, leaving the visiting political delegation stranded in Kathmandu. Security personnel deployed force to prevent protesters from entering the airport terminal, resulting in injuries among both demonstrators and police officers.

Despite the District Administration Office in Bara imposing a curfew to restore order, enforcement has proven difficult. Demonstrators have continued to occupy major intersections, burning tires and engaging in skirmishes with security forces. Local authorities report that the police have struggled to contain the crowds, leading to a defensive posture by law enforcement agencies.

In response to a police complaint filed by protest leaders, authorities have arrested two local ward chairpersons for investigation. However, the primary demand of the protesters remains the immediate arrest of Arvind Sah. The Gen Z leadership has stated they will not engage in formal negotiations until this arrest is made, rejecting invitations to meet at the district headquarters in Kalaiya.

The instability has paralyzed daily life in the Jeetpur-Simara sub-metropolitan area. Educational institutions and markets have been closed since Wednesday, with school administrators confirming closures will continue through Friday. Local civil society leaders and municipal authorities are urgently appealing for a peaceful resolution to prevent further economic and social disruption.