Rajbiraj, August 20

A mass demonstration was staged protesting the death of a youth in police firing at Bhardaha, in Saptari, three days ago.

The agitating cadres of Madhesi Morcha chanted slogans demanding that the deceased Rajib Kumar Raut be declared a martyr and stern action taken against the guilty police personnel.

Senior leaders of Madhesi forces met and condoled the kin of the deceased at Bhardaha. Speaking to mediapersons, Chairman of Federal Socialist Forum-Nepal Upendra Yadav said that their agitation would continue until the federal units were announced as per the spirit of the interim constitution. He claimed that a large number of people from mountains, hills and Tarai had joined the agitation as the CA was going to issue the constitution unilaterally, ignoring the sentiments of the people, argued Yadav. Tarai Madhes Loktantrik Party Chairman Mahanth Thakur accused the security force of trying to suppress a peaceful agitation. He said the protest had intensified due to the government’s discriminatory attitude towards people.

Rajendra Mahato, chairman of Sadbhawana Party, declared Rajib Kumar Raut, who was killed in police firing, as the first Madhesi martyr. Though senior leaders of Madhesi forces were supposed to address a function today, it was postponed for tomorrow due to rains.

NSP Chair Anil Kumar Jha, CPN (Maoist) Coordinator Matrika Yadav, among other leaders arrived at Bhardaha today.