KATHMANDU, July 29: Amid rising tensions following recent incidents in Sunsari and several other districts, major political parties have issued a seven-point joint statement, urging citizens to maintain peace, social harmony, and restraint.
The appeal was issued after an all-party meeting convened by Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane, where leaders expressed deep concern over the sensitive and tragic developments. According to RSP General Secretary Bipin Kumar Acharya, the meeting mourned the deaths in the incidents and extended condolences to the bereaved families while wishing speedy recovery to injured citizens and security personnel.
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Emphasizing Nepal’s identity as a country rooted in diversity, unity, and coexistence, the parties warned that emotional reactions, confrontation, and violence would only deepen the crisis. They stressed that even the most complex grievances in a democracy can be resolved only through peaceful dialogue and consensus.
The joint statement highlighted that maintaining peace cannot be the responsibility of the central government alone. It called for all-party and multi-stakeholder meetings at provincial, district, and local levels, urging religious leaders, civil society members, and local administrations to play an active role in restoring trust and harmony.
The parties also cautioned against the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and rumors through social media, saying such activities could further inflame tensions during sensitive periods. They urged media outlets and citizens to remain responsible and share only verified information.
Calling on the government to safeguard citizens’ lives and property, the parties demanded an impartial investigation into the incidents, legal action against those responsible, and appropriate compensation for the victims.
The joint statement was signed by RSP President Lamichhane, Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa, Nepali Communist Party Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and CPN-UML General Secretary Shankar Pokhrel. Representatives from other parties, including Shram Sanskriti Party’s Aren Rai, Loktantrik Samajwadi Party Chair Mahantha Thakur, Rastriya Prajatantra Party Chair Rajendra Lingden, Janamat Party Chair CK Raut, and Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal representative Prakash Adhikari, also endorsed the statement.
