The National Human Rights Commission has urged the Government of Nepal to strengthen the state of peace and security, prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future, create an environment that respects the views and freedom of expression of all parties, investigate the incidents, and ensure effective treatment for the injured. The Commission, in a press release issued on 20 November drew attention to the clash that occurred on 19 November in Simara, Bara, between the CPN-UML activists and the Gen Z group, as well as the subsequent situation that arose. The press release also stated that the Commission is monitoring the incident.
The Commission stated that the activists of CPN-UML were scheduled to hold a Madhesh Province-level programme in Parwanipur, Bara, on 19 November. Central leaders of the party were expected to travel to Simara to attend the event. Following a call made by the local Gen Z group coordinators on Facebook on 18 and 19 November, Gen Z youths gathered at Simara Chowk around 10:30 a.m., intending to raise awareness to the government that justice had not been served for the victims who were killed or injured on 8 and 9 September.
The press release stated that after CPN-UML activists arrived at the location, a dispute broke out between the two sides, creating an abnormal situation in which five youths were injured. Subsequently, the agitated crowd moved toward Simara Airport, where a clash occurred in front of the airport, causing damage to the airport gate and disrupting flights. As a result, the UML leaders were unable to reach Simara, and the local administration imposed a curfew in the Simara area. The press release stated that the injured received treatment at the municipal hospital and they had filed complaints at the local police station against the individuals who attacked them. The Commission urged the Government of Nepal and all concerned parties to take the matter seriously, noting that such incidents, especially given the current political situation in the country and the announcement of elections scheduled for 5 March, could hinder a conducive environment for the elections and have serious implications for peace and security.
The Commission highlighted that such incidents not only violate the rights to freedom enshrined in Article 17 of the Constitution but also negatively affect mutual harmony among stakeholders involved in the elections. The press release issued by the Commission’s spokesperson and Joint Secretary, Dr. Tikaram Pokharel, also urged all concerned to exercise restraint and contribute to normalizing the situation.