Biratnagar, Aug. 5 -- Last week, as tensions grew in Kaptanganj of Dewanganj Rural Municipality after a minor dispute between Hindu and Muslim youths escalated, the security situation began to deteriorate.

At the centre of decision-making was one person - the Chief District Officer (CDO) of Sunsari. The deployment of the Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force, the imposition of curfew, and decisions that could eventually require the presence of the Nepali Army all rested with him.

The CDO chaired meetings with political party leaders, protesting youths, federal lawmakers, and local representatives from the affected areas.

Meanwhile, in Biratnagar, about 15 kilometres from Kaptanganj, Morang's CDO declared a curfew in parts of the dist...