Islamist mob attacks Hindu procession in Mahottari: Nepal

An Islamist mob reportedly attacked a Hindu procession on October 27. The procession came under attack after a dispute regarding flag hoisting. Several people including police were injured in the violence. The situation was brought under control by the police by using lathicharge and teargas.

A report by OpIndia notes:

According to the reports, the Islamists pelted stones at the Hindu procession and also attacked the Police who reached the spot to control the situation. The Islamists were enraged over the Hindus who participated in the procession for hoisting and swaying the flag during the procession. The Police imposed a lathi charge to disperse the violent Islamist mob that launched an attack on several police officers on October 27.

Authorities are maintaining an enhanced security presence in several parts of Mahottari District, Madhesh Province, following the violence. Reportedly, in response to the recent violence, the officials have imposed an indefinite curfew and restrictions on public gatherings in the areas including Bhangaha, Dharmapur, Loharpatti, and Parariya. The restrictions, however, do not apply to people who provide essential services.

Rajesh Yadav, president of Hindu Samrat Sena, described the incident in detail on Sudarshan News channel. Rajesh Yadav who is severely injured and has a bandage tied around his head, said that Parariya is Muslim dominant area. He added that the incident of stone pelting began as soon as the procession arrived in the region. He further asserted that the stone pelters included both Islamist men and women. According to Rajesh, about 20 Hindus were left with serious head injuries as a result of stone pelting.

Dheeraj informed that the Muslim population in his district has risen to 15 per cent. He also accused the government and administration of favouring Muslims. Furthermore, he lamented that Hindu Samrat Sena (HSS) received no support from its own community members over the incident.

HSS female member Manju Mandal informed OpIndia that no cases have been registered against the Islamists who attacked the Hindu procession but that cases have been filed against Hindus instead. Mandal said that an arrest warrant has been issued against Rajesh Yadav by the local administration.

(Featured Image Source: OpIndia)