Protest against 'Black Day' stifles daily life in 9 districts

ILAM, Aug 7: A general strike called by Rastriya Jana Mukti Party has affected daily life in the nine districts of Province 1. The districts include Ilam, Panchthar, Jhapa, Taplejung, Morang, Sunsari, Dhankuta, Tehrathum and Sankhuwasabha.

The strike has reduced vehicular movement plying along short and long routes by more than a half, including those in the Mechi highway. The strike has closed schools, industries, offices and market places.

On August 7 every year, the districts come to a standstill as residents express dissatisfaction toward the unification of Nepal in 1831 which destroyed the Limbuwan region.  

“We lost our identity during the unification campaign this day in 1831 BS. This is a ‘Black Day’ for us,” KP Palungwa, central chairperson of the Rastriya Jana Mukti party said.

Meanwhile, more than 50 cadres enforcing the strike have been arrested from Dharan and Damak. “We urge for their immediate release,” he said. The strike will end after 5 PM today.