The entire nation needs to step up to restore harmony in Tarai

Leaders, civil society and citizens must reject division and rebuild trust in Tarai.

On Thursday evening, Prime Minister Balendra Shah finally addressed the nation after days of unrest across the Tarai-Madhesh triggered by a communal clash in Dewanganj, Sunsari. Since recent events in regions of the southern plains placed the country in a precariously tense situation, it was only right that PM Shah finally took off his sunglasses and peered into the eyes of all citizens, urging them to exercise restraint and maintain societal harmony. The loss of three young lives—Jay Prakash Mehta, Om Prakash Mehta and Ganesh Yadav—and the injuries to scores of citizens and security personnel represent a dreadful tragedy that has heightened a sense of insecurity across the country. With curfews placed in several districts and the spectre of arson and vandalism looming, the fear persists that the situation could spiral beyond control, leading to irreparable damage to the national fabric.