Nepal’s Madhesi stir turns violent again, several hurt

Several people were injured on Saturdaywhen supporters of Madhesi parties turned violent and attacked buses and other vehicles being escorted by security forces in southern Nepal near the Indian border where they have been agitating for over a month against the new Constitution.

Clashes erupted between the security forces and Joint Democratic Madhesi Front (JDMF) cadres, who pelted stones at the vehicles in Dhalkebar in Dhanusa district before dawn.

The protesters threw petrol bombs in the direction of the vehicles and smashed their window panes. Police fired around 30 rounds into the air to control the protesters, some of whom were said to be hit by rubber bullets during the clash.

At least eight passengers were injured by people throwing stones at the vehicles. The driver of a bus is said to be seriously wounded after being hit on his head by protesters.

In southeast Nepal’s Bardaha district, police had to baton charge and fire teargas shells at protesters throwing stones on vehicles ferrying people and goods. At least six agitators and two policemen were injured in the incident.

Southern plains of the landlocked Nepal has been simmering with tension since the new Constitution was formally adopted on September 20.