KATHMANDU: President Ramchandra Paudel has expressed concern over the recent unrest in Kaptaanganj of Dewanganj Rural Municipality in Sunsari and other affected areas, urging all Nepalis to preserve the country’s long-standing tradition of social, religious and ethnic harmony.

In an appeal issued on Thursday, Paudel said that tolerance, reconciliation, brotherhood and national unity had for centuries been central to Nepal’s identity and tradition.
“I urge all political parties, civil society and all Nepali sisters and brothers to preserve these values, maintain peace, order and stability, and strengthen national unity,” the president said.
Paudel expressed confidence that the government would make every possible effort to normalize the situation quickly, restore law and order and ensure an environment in which citizens can live peacefully.

“In this difficult moment, I sincerely appeal to everyone not to allow the situation to become more complicated and to maintain unity, mutual harmony, friendship and tolerance within communities,” the statement said.

The president also called for a thorough investigation into the incident, strict action against those found responsible and greater vigilance by all concerned to prevent similar incidents in the future. Paudel paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the unrest, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.