Violent Protests Erupt in Nepal
On Tuesday, widespread protests against the Nepalese government escalated into violence, resulting in at least 19 fatalities and hundreds injured, according to reports. Demonstrators, particularly young members of Gen Z, attacked government buildings and demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Sharma Oli in Kathmandu.
Local media sources indicated that the protesters set fire to the home of former Prime Minister Jala Nath Kanar while he and his wife were present inside. Tensions have been high, especially after the government imposed a ban on major social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and YouTube. Although the ban was revoked, protesters vowed to continue demonstrating until the Congress is dissolved, citing government corruption as their main grievance.
A student involved in the protests, Vishnu Thapa Chetri, expressed his frustration, stating, “I am here to protest the massive corruption of our country. This country has become so bad that there is no basis for our youth to stay.”
In response to the unrest, Prime Minister Oli resigned on Tuesday amid the turmoil. Smoke was reportedly seen rising from the government’s primary administrative complex, Singadurbar Palace.
Authorities also confirmed that rioters attacked two prisons in western Nepal, allowing nearly 900 inmates to escape. The protests have prompted the US Embassy in Kathmandu to advise its citizens to steer clear of large crowds.
Nepal’s army chief, Ashok Raj Sigdel, mentioned that the military is prepared to intervene if violence persists, but he encouraged dialogue with the protesters.
