UML and RSP clash in Baitadi; UML warns of retaliation

Dhangadhi: A clash occurred between cadres of the CPN (UML) and the National Independent Party (RSP) in Dilasaini Rural Municipality, Baitadi, at 7:45 pm on Wednesday. Three individuals from both sides were injured in the incident, which took place in Mallalek Tole, Dilasaini-7. The injured include Janak Dhami, Madhav Dhami, and Lal Singh Dhami, all residents of the same area.

Among the injured, Janak and Madhav are UML cadres, while Lal Singh is the ward president of Dilasaini-7 of the RSP. Police Inspector Suraj Singh, spokesperson of the District Police Office, stated that the two UML cadres are receiving treatment in Dhangadhi, while Lal Singh is undergoing treatment in Baitadi.

Inspector Singh added, "It has been revealed that there was a clash between the two sides during the election door-to-door program. We have taken five people into custody for investigation. Interrogation is underway." According to police, all five arrested are cadres of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and no UML cadres have been detained.

Damodar Bhandari of the UML and Harimohan Bhandari of the RSS are candidates in Baitadi and are brothers from the same village in Patan Municipality, with their homes located just two minutes apart in Ward No. 6. Following Wednesday night’s clash, both parties have exchanged accusations.

The UML has warned of retaliation. Yagyaraj Bhatta, chairman of the National Youth Association, Baitadi, issued a warning, stating that if the RSS does not remain alert, "it will be forced to retaliate like a stone answering a brick." Bhatta accused RSS workers of carrying out a deadly attack while the UML was conducting a door-to-door campaign for the House of Representatives elections. He urged the administration to bring the individuals involved in the incident to justice and warned that those spreading rumors, defaming UML leaders and activists, or carrying out anarchic activities in the name of the RSS would face retaliation.

The RSS, however, accused the UML of attacking its cadres. Bhim Nath, president of RSS Baitadi, stated, "Our party has drawn serious attention to the cowardly attack on RSS ward president Lal Singh Dhami and member Lokendra Dhami while riding a motorcycle during election campaigning in Mallalek, Dilasaini-7, by dozens of UML cadres in a jeep." Nath demanded an impartial investigation and strict legal action against those responsible, asserting that the attack on a peaceful campaign amounts to an attack on democracy. "Those who cannot compete with ideas choose the path of violence, which is proof of democratic defeat," he said. Nath also warned that if immediate action is not taken, the RSS would pursue legal and political measures.