Prisoners Protest in Rajbiraj Jail, Attempt Self-Immolation

Prisoners at the Rajbiraj district jail in Saptari have been protesting for three days, demanding the transfer of jailer Rupak Mandal, who they accuse of financial irregularities and extortion.

The prisoners claim that Mandal has been involved in a large-scale financial scam, using the pretext of appointing a new guard to extort money from them. They are demanding his immediate transfer and a fair investigation into the allegations.

Protest Turns Violent

The situation took a turn for the worse when police used force to try to bring the protest under control. In response, some prisoners attempted to set themselves on fire by pouring kerosene on their bodies.

According to sources, the police retreated after the prisoners began attempting self-immolation.

One prisoner, Dharrendra Prasad Sah, alleged that he was asked to pay Rs 500,000 to be appointed as a guard, and that the money was taken by Kameshwar Yadav, another guard, on behalf of Mandal.

Security Beefed Up

A large number of Nepal Police and Armed Police personnel have been deployed in the prison premises due to security concerns. Journalists have also been barred from entering the prison to gather news.

Earlier, there were reports of clashes between prisoners and guards, resulting in injuries to some prisoners.

District Administration Office, Saptari, Chief District Officer Ramkrishna Thapa confirmed that the prisoners had attempted self-immolation and that the situation was now under control after negotiations.

According to Thapa, the clashes occurred due to allegations that the guard, Ram Rijanal, had not treated the prisoners fairly.