Key Takeaways:

• NHRC Koshi Province Office launched inquiry into Sunsari's Dewanganj clash
• Preliminary findings: dispute over flag placement and loud music escalated into violence.
• Police gunfire killed Om Prakash Mehta, 24; nine others injured, two critical
• NHRC urged government to ensure justice, compensation, treatment and social harmony

KATHMANDU, JULY 27 The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched a detailed investigation into the deadly clash between two communities in Sunsari's Dewanganj and urged all sides to maintain social harmony as tensions continue in the district. In a press statement issued Monday, the commission said its Koshi Province Office in Biratnagar had begun a preliminary inquiry into Sunday's violence, collecting information from the Chief District Officer, district police chief, hospital authorities and local residents. According to NHRC's initial findings, the confrontation began over a dispute concerning the placement of a flag on a utility pole. The situation escalated when disagreements arose over loud music during preparations for the Bol Bam pilgrimage, eventually leading to vandalism and clashes. Police later opened fire while attempting to control the situation. The commission said the incident claimed the life of 24-year-old Om Prakash Mehta, who was struck by police gunfire. Nine others sustained bullet injuries, including two in critical condition. Four are receiving treatment at Neuro Hospital, four at Birat Nursing Home, and one at Nobel Medical College in Biratnagar. NHRC noted that protests erupted in the aftermath, with demonstrators burning tyres and carrying sticks and iron rods in several areas. The security situation remains tense in Kaptanganj and surrounding localities, where the Nepal Army has been deployed. The commission directed the government to conduct a thorough investigation, bring those responsible to justice, provide relief and compensation to the deceased's family, and ensure free and effective treatment for the injured. It also appealed to political parties, civil society organisations, human rights defenders and the public to help preserve social harmony and resolve disputes through peaceful dialogue rather than violence.