The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has expressed concerns over the incidents of violence in the Tarai region.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, in his opening statement at the 30th session of the Human Rights Council, expressed his concerns over the incidents in the southern plains of Nepal which has led to the death and injury of protesters and security personnel, as well as reported attacks against human rights defenders and journalists. “I urge all political leaders to work together to address differences over the proposed constitution peacefully, and to ensure that the security forces uphold human rights at all times,” he said.

At least 40 people, including nine security personnel, have died since Madhesis and Tharus launched protests against the delineation of the provinces on August 9. The Tarai region  has remained shut due to ongoing protests for the past one month.

According to National Human Rights Commission, the rights situation in the region is very poor. The national human rights body has said that state security forces have been using excessive force while the protesters are growing violent in retaliation.