Birgunj, Nepal: Authorities have extended the curfew in Birgunj city, near the India–Nepal border, till Tuesday evening, as tensions triggered by a TikTok video continue to keep the region on edge.

 

The District Administration Office (DAO) of Parsa imposed the curfew after protests by opposing groups escalated despite prohibitory orders being in place. Officials said the decision was taken to prevent further violence and restore public order.

 

Why was the curfew imposed?

 

The unrest began after a TikTok video containing allegedly offensive religious remarks went viral, sparking anger among local communities. The administration initially issued prohibitory orders on Monday afternoon, but protests defied the restrictions, forcing authorities to enforce a full curfew from 6 pm Monday to 8 am Tuesday.

 

As tensions failed to subside, the curfew was first extended till 1 pm, and later further extended till 6 pm on Tuesday.

 

Which areas are under curfew?

 

The curfew covers several sensitive zones within Birgunj Metropolitan City, including:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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      Bus Park

       

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      Nagwa

       

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      Inarwa (East)

       

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      Sirsia River (West)

       

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      Gandak Chowk (North)

       

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      Shankaracharya Gate (South)

       

 

Movement, gatherings, protests, rallies, and demonstrations are strictly prohibited within these limits.

 

What restrictions are in place?

 

Under the curfew order, residents are barred from stepping out of their homes unless absolutely necessary. Authorities have warned that security forces have been authorised to take strict action, including firing if required, against anyone violating the curfew.

 

People requiring emergency movement have been advised to coordinate with nearby security personnel or contact emergency services.

 

However, vehicles involved in essential services — including ambulances, fire engines, health workers, media, diplomats, tourists, and air passengers — are allowed movement after verification.

 

What triggered the violence?

 

According to officials, the situation first turned tense in Dhanusha district after two youths allegedly posted a TikTok video that hurt religious sentiments. The youths were later handed over to the police by locals.

 

The tension escalated further after a mosque was vandalised in Kamala Municipality, triggering protests and rallies. Demonstrators blocked roads, burned tyres and raised slogans, with unrest spreading from Dhanusha to neighbouring Parsa district, including Birgunj.

 

Social media platforms, especially TikTok, reportedly played a major role in amplifying tensions, with videos and posts from both sides fuelling anger.

 

What’s the situation now?

 

Security forces remain deployed across sensitive areas, and authorities say the situation is being closely monitored. While no fresh major incidents were reported at the time of filing this report, officials warned that the curfew could be extended further if necessary.

 

Residents have been urged to remain calm, avoid rumours, and cooperate with law enforcement to help restore normalcy.