Rautahat, October 10

The ongoing general strike enforced by United Democratic Madhesi Front has dampened the festive spirit even as Dashain is just around the corner.

Protesting against the newly-promulgated constitution and state demarcation, United Democratic Madhesi Front cadres have been staging a sit-in at Dasgaja area of Gaur-Bairganiya in Rautahat. This has prevented locals from crossing the border to make purchases for the festival, while the local market remains shut. “

How are we supposed to serve the guests during the festival?” wondered Shyamchandra Jha of Matsari, adding that United Democratic Madhesi Front cadres had barred even the Madhesis from bringing anything from across the border.

According to Bigan Mahato of Gangapipara, the front cadres spilled petroleum products if they found anyone bringing it from across the border.

Meanwhile, all educational and financial institutions, marketplaces, government as well as non-government offices have been shut due to the protracted agitation for the past 55 days.