Mar 24, Kathmandu - Tensions escalated in Gulariya Municipality-11, Ganeshpur, Bardiya, as protesters and police clashed, resulting in injuries to nearly a dozen police personnel.

According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Pramesh Bista of Bardiya District Police Office, the unrest was sparked by the death of two youths a few days ago. The youths, Suresh Khatik and Bahuron Khatik, were reportedly found unconscious while sleeping and were rushed to the hospital, where they later succumbed. Authorities suspect drug overdose and accuse local residents of openly smuggling narcotics through the Indian border checkpoint.

The protesters blocked the road, demanding action against drug trafficking, which led to the confrontation with police. During the clash, nine individuals attacking police were detained. To restore order, police fired nine rounds of warning shots into the air.