South Nepal rocked by violence

Violence is increasing in south Nepal as the result of political demands from the Madheshi people of the region.

The Madheshi, who occupy the southern plains of the area, commonly known as Terai, are calling for better representation in parliament and greater autonomy.

In addition, there have been calls for many important jobs occupied by hill dwellers to be given to the plains-living Madheshi and a general strike is underway.

Violence towards hill dwellers yesterday left dozens of people injured in the towns of Biratnagar and Janakpur and there are fears that the clashes could escalate unless the government offers a solution.

Much of the region is now under a curfew, which is being implemented by the local police.

The Madheshi are said to make up at least a third of Nepal's population but are significantly under represented in parliament, according to the BBC.

The Nepalese government recently averted potential violence from Maoist rebels after admitting them to parliament.