Private sector bodies express grave concern over eastern Tarai unrest, urge dialogue
KATHMANDU: Nepal’s leading private sector umbrella bodies have expressed grave concern over escalating unrest, violent clashes and public tension across several eastern Tarai districts, following incidents in Kaptanganj in Dewanganj Rural Municipality-3, Sunsari district.
In separate press statements released on Thursday, Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) and Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) extended condolences to the families of those killed in recent violence, wished a swift recovery to the injured and issued an urgent call for maximum restraint and immediate dialogue among all parties.
Warning of severe economic repercussions, the business organisations said widespread agitation, forced market closures, property destruction and looting are disrupting daily life, supply chains and commercial enterprise across the region. CNI said such instability undermines ongoing efforts to create employment and sustain economic progress. All three groups called on the government, local administrations and security agencies to ensure full protection for citizens, industrial infrastructure and business establishments.
Highlighting Nepal’s heritage of multi-ethnic, multilingual, multi-religious and multicultural coexistence, FNCCI said the Tarai-Madhesh region remains a vital pillar of social harmony and tolerance. The federation emphasised that peace is a prerequisite for economic stability, saying, “any differences or misunderstandings can only be resolved through peaceful talks, dialogue, and mutual understanding.” FNCCI urged the public to disregard rumours and provocative rhetoric and appealed to political parties, civil society, religious authorities and media personnel to assist in de-escalating tensions.
Likewise, the NCC appealed to citizens to refrain from violence and misleading information, asserting that “no disagreement or difference can be greater than human life, social harmony, and national unity.” The chamber commended steps taken by government authorities, security forces and community leaders to restore normality and called for transparent, impartial and continuous engagement among all stakeholders. NCC pledged private sector support for business rehabilitation and trust‑building initiatives in affected areas.
Echoing these calls, CNI urged all sides to maintain law and order, noting that past experience shows disputes are best resolved through peaceful discussions rather than confrontation. The confederation asked its provincial and district network, alongside other private sector bodies, to work with local social groups and organise peace-building initiatives, including harmony rallies, to help restore stability and social cohesion.
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