Biratnagar, October 26:

Local youths and family members and friends of Bhola Thapa of Jamungachhi, who was murdered on Monday, today forced the closure of Biratnagar bazaar protesting “police apathy” and failure to take action against the guilty.

The closure of the bazaar is likely to affect the chhath festival in the region.

Police said, agitated youths also vandalised shops in Biratnagar Gudri and continued to shout slogans against the police at different chowks.

The victim’s family members also met Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and urged legal action against the guilty.

According to Suraj Gupta, the PM has assured that he will order the local administration to probe into the incident. Superintendent of police at the district police office, Gopal Bhandari, said a probe has already been initiated.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested Bimal Bhattarai of Pushpalal Chowk on the charge of murdering Thapa.

A lawsuit has also been filed against 22 persons, said SP Bhandari.