Political Turmoil in Nepal's Madhesh Province Leads to Vandalism of Chief Minister's Office

Significant political unrest erupted in Nepal's Madhesh province on Monday, culminating in the vandalism of the Chief Minister's office in Janakpurdham. The chaos ensued shortly after Saroj Kumar Yadav of the CPN-UML was appointed as the new Chief Minister, a move that has ignited widespread controversy.Tensions escalated after the Province Chief, Sumitra Subedi Bhandari, appointed Yadav as Chief Minister from a hotel in Bardibas, Mahottari. This decision bypassed the Nepali Congress-led alliance and has been strongly condemned by multiple political factions. Following the appointment, aggrieved provincial assembly members and other individuals stormed the Chief Minister's office, causing significant damage. Reports indicate that furniture and other property within the chamber were vandalized, and the national flag was disrespectfully thrown away.The incident has thrown the politics of Madhesh province, which borders India, into turmoil. The outgoing Chief Minister, Jitendra Sonal, who had resigned just a day prior, accused the Province Chief of betraying the people of Madhesh with the covert appointment. Protests have been led by lawmakers and cadres from dissatisfied parties, including the Nepali Congress, Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP), and Loktantrik Samajbadi Party (LSP)In response to the violence and escalating tensions, security has been significantly tightened around the provincial government premises. The controversial appointment and subsequent backlash highlight the deep political instability currently affecting the province.