Clash in Ganeshpur leaves 10 security personnel injured, blocked road reopens

BARDIYA, March 24: At least 10 security personnel were injured after a clash broke out between locals and security forces in Ganeshpur, Bardiya, following protests over the deaths of two youths allegedly linked to drug use.

The incident occurred after locals blocked the Guleriya–Nepalgunj road section, accusing the easy availability of drugs in the nearby Indian border market of Laukahi for the deaths of two brothers from Guleriya Municipality-11. The deceased have been identified as Suresh Khatik, 36, and his 30-year-old brother Bahuran Khatik.

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According to police, tensions escalated when protesters obstructed the road, leading to a clash between the two sides. Seven Nepal Police personnel were injured, three of them seriously. One of the injured has been referred to Nepalgunj for further treatment, said DSP Pramesh Bista. Three Armed Police Force personnel also sustained minor injuries.

Security forces fired tear gas to disperse the crowd and bring the situation under control. The road, which had been blocked during the protest, has now been reopened, authorities said.