September 24: Leaders and supporters of the United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) have been gathering near crucial trading points on the Indo-Nepal border, a day after they announced that the front will impose a blockade on the border.

The front, which has been imposing a general strike in eastern Terai for the last 42 days, has been protesting the federalism-related provisions of the new constitution, among others.

In Birgunj, leaders Rajendra Mahato, Anil Jha, Shiva Patel and Pradip Yadav ares leading the protestors who are taking part in a sit-in in the border area.

On Wednesday, the front’s meeting in Rajbiraj had decided to pile pressure on the government by imposing a blockade in the border and obstructing traffic on the highways.  

Meanwhile, the general public, and businessmen continue to bear the brunt of the shutdown. Traders have not been able to bring into the country raw material worth billions of rupees, and a shortage in daily supplies has made life difficult for common people.