Biratnagar closed as protests against Saturday's Mosque bombing continue

The eastern town of Biratnagar remains closed for the second day on Monday with the Muslim community organising street protests against the bomb attack on a mosque that left two persons dead Saturday night.

Vehicular traffic had partially resumed in the town while bazaars had started to open this morning, but were soon closed down after rallies started. There were no reports of violence in the course of the protest, however.

The protesters have demanded compensation to the family of the blast victims, Firoz Khan and Parvez Ansari, and security to the Muslim community.

Muslim leaders have called for restraint in the aftermath of the bomb attack on the mosque at Sarauchiya of Biratnagar sub-metropolis.

A little-known Hindu extremist outfit called Nepal Defence Army has claimed responsibility for the bomb attack.

Meanwhile, two persons were injured when Indian dacoits hurled a socket bomb at a house in Biratnagar-18 Sunday night. House owner Pawan Kumar
Shrestha and his brother Pawan were wounded in the incident.

Police have arrested four Indian dacoits, along with four pistols, when they were trying to run away after throwing the bomb at the house, reports said. nepalnews.com mk Mar 31 08

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