Key Takeaways:

• Seven detained in Malangawa and Barahathawa during shutdown enforcement
• Partial impact seen in district HQ Malangawa and nearby market areas
• Residents resisted outsiders attempting to enforce strike in Barahathawa
• Police urged public to avoid rumours and help maintain communal harmon

SARLAHI, JULY 31 A shutdown called by a group identifying itself as the Hindu Samrat Sena affected parts of Sarlahi district on Friday, while police detained seven people and urged the public not to be influenced by rumours amid heightened security. According to the District Police Office, Sarlahi, seven individuals were taken into custody from Malangawa and Barahathawa for investigation. Police said security arrangements had been tightened across the district to prevent any untoward incidents. The shutdown had some impact in the district headquarters, Malangawa, and a few other market areas, local authorities said. Police confirmed that demonstrations took place in some locations, while the District Administration Office appealed to all sides to exercise restraint and maintain communal harmony. In Barahathawa, local residents reportedly objected to attempts by outsiders to enforce the shutdown, after which four individuals were handed over to police. Authorities said the situation remained under control. District Police Office spokesperson Deputy Superintendent of Police Bed Prasad Gautam said police were maintaining close surveillance across the district and urged the public not to spread or act on unverified information. He also appealed to residents to help preserve peace and social harmony. The shutdown call followed recent incidents of violence in Sunsari and neighbouring districts. However, authorities have repeatedly appealed to the public to remain calm, avoid rumours, and refrain from any activity that could disturb public order while investigations into the incidents continue.