Mahottarai district in-charge of Janatantrik Terai Mukti Morcha (JTMM), Jaya Narayan Paswan alias Tyagi, was shot dead in a gunfight with the police Saturday afternoon.

Paswan was killed during exchange of fire at Ekdara area of the district, local reports said. A police team was on patrol in the area when the armed group opened fire. Head Constable Surendra Chaudhary and constable Bachha Yadav were injured in the clash.

Police said Paswan was accused in a number of criminal cases including murder and armed robbery.

JTMM is one of the few armed groups active in Terai. A number of armed outfits have already surrendered before the government following talks. nepalnews.com