- Four Madhesh-based parties urged communities to maintain social harmony and avoid actions that could deepen religious divisions in the Terai region.
- Leaders demanded a high-level judicial investigation committee, led by a retired Supreme Court justice, to impartially probe recent religious incidents.
- The parties warned against the misuse of religious sentiments and organized attempts to destabilize the Madhesh region's peaceful coexistence.
- The joint statement appealed for dialogue, caution against rumors, and collective responsibility to protect Nepal’s multicultural identity and social stability.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Amid growing concerns over recent religious tensions and clashes reported in parts of the Terai region, four Madhesh-based political parties have urged people from all communities to remain calm, maintain social harmony, and avoid actions that could further divide society.
The parties have demanded the formation of a high-level judicial investigation committee led by a retired Supreme Court justice to conduct an impartial inquiry into the incidents and establish the facts.
The joint statement was signed by Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal Chairperson Mahanta Thakur, Rastriya Mukti Party Chairperson Rajendra Mahato, Janamat Party leader Jayakant Raut, Rastriya Nirman Dal leader Samim Ansari, and former Constituent Assembly member Ram Kumar Sharma.
The leaders stated that recent incidents have created fear, insecurity, and tension among communities in the Terai region, which is known for its cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity. They emphasized that maintaining peace and protecting social harmony are collective responsibilities, particularly during sensitive periods.
The leaders stressed the need for a fair and credible investigation to uncover the truth behind the incidents. They argued that those responsible for any unlawful activities should be held accountable, while the rights and safety of innocent citizens must be protected.
The parties also expressed concern that recent developments could be part of an organized attempt to destabilize the Madhesh region. They warned that the misuse of religious sentiments for political or other interests could deepen social divisions and threaten peaceful coexistence.
The joint statement urged citizens to remain cautious of rumors, inflammatory messages, and activities aimed at creating conflict. The leaders warned that hatred and provocation could weaken social relations and create further divisions among communities.
“Hatred and provocation only lead to greater division in society,” the statement said, calling on all citizens to stand for truth, justice, and the rule of law.
The Terai region has historically been home to diverse communities with different languages, cultures, and religious traditions. People from various backgrounds have lived together for generations, sharing social, cultural, and economic relationships. However, recent religious tensions have raised concerns about the potential impact on longstanding community relations and mutual trust.
The Madhesh-based parties urged the government, political groups, and community leaders to handle sensitive issues responsibly and prioritize dialogue and cooperation over confrontation. They emphasized that disputes related to religion and identity should be resolved through legal procedures, communication, and mutual understanding.
Meanwhile, civil society members and local leaders have also called for increased dialogue and cooperation among communities to prevent further escalation of tensions. They warned that failure to address such issues effectively could have long-term consequences for social harmony and stability in the Terai region.
The appeal from Madhesh leaders highlights a broader message: protecting peace and diversity requires collective responsibility, and Nepal’s multicultural identity should remain a foundation for unity rather than division.
