Simara Unrest Continues: Clash Between Janajagaran Youth and UML

 Simara remains tense after violent clashes between UML leaders and Gen Z youth. The unrest follows the brutal government crackdown during the Gen Z-led protest on 23 Bhadau, which had shocked the entire country. After days of relative calm, Wednesday’s incident disrupted normal life once again.

Although UML workers were not visibly present on the streets, repeated clashes occurred between Gen Z youth and the police. Both sides suffered injuries. Police used batons and tear gas, and when the situation escalated, they even fired warning shots on Thursday. Despite a curfew imposed by the Bara District Administration, Gen Z youth openly defied it, burning tires and taking over Simara Chowk on the Birgunj–Pathlaiya road.

Local authorities invited the protesters for dialogue on Thursday afternoon, but talks failed. The main demand of Gen Z youth is the arrest of UML Youth Union leader Arvind Sah, who assaulted one of their members. Without his arrest, protesters warned of stronger demonstrations on Friday, raising fears among residents of a repeat of the earlier violent crackdown.

The clashes trace back to Wednesday morning when UML held a regional rally at Parwanipur, Bara, attended by senior leaders Shankar Pokhrel and Mahesh Basnet. Gen Z youth had been called to gather at Simara Chowk around 10 AM by Gen Z coordinator Samrat Upadhyay. By the time UML leaders arrived at Simara Airport for a 10:30 AM flight, 20–25 youth had already gathered at the Chowk, joined by some students.

As both sides met, verbal arguments escalated, and UML local leader Arvind Sah punched a Gen Z youth, sparking a physical fight. Police intervened with batons and tear gas, injuring several youth. The flight of UML leaders was delayed, and protesters attempted to enter the airport forcefully, leading to more clashes. Despite police intervention, the youth continued to block roads and burn tires.

On Wednesday, Gen Z filed a complaint against six individuals involved in the assault, including three former ward chairpersons elected from UML. Two of them were arrested on Thursday for investigation, but the protests continued, defying curfew orders. Schools, colleges, and local businesses were forced to close due to safety concerns.

Locals, civic leaders, and school authorities have expressed concern over the unrest, emphasizing that early police action and dialogue could have prevented escalation. Videos of clashes, stone throwing, and protesters confronting police went viral on social media, showing the tense and uncontrolled situation.

The District Administration and police remain largely absent from the ground, operating from Kalaiya, leaving the residents anxious. Gen Z leaders have refused dialogue until their demands are met. Citizens and local leaders continue to urge both sides to return to talks and restore peace, especially as the country prepares for the upcoming elections.