Nepal Faces Unrest as Protests Escalate and Government Buildings are Torched

In Kathmandu, the situation deteriorated dramatically as thousands of Nepalese citizens took to the streets in protest, leading to excessive violence against government structures and officials. Soldiers were deployed to enforce a curfew and control the unrest, which had escalated over recent days with reports of looting and destruction of property. The Nepalese military, normally kept out of civilian affairs, stepped in after police failed to manage the chaos, resulting in the arrest of multiple suspected looters.

The protests erupted in reaction to the government's decision to block several popular social media platforms, igniting frustrations particularly among the youth. Demonstrators not only set fire to government buildings but also expressed their discontent with the political elite, resulting in Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli stepping down. However, his resignation did little to quell the outrage, as protesters continued to obstruct roads and rally against perceived government corruption and economic hardships.

Reports indicate that amid the unrest, scores of prison inmates escaped, taking advantage of the situation. The violence intensified as police clashed with demonstrators, leading to fatalities, including 19 individuals killed when authorities opened fire. Despite a lift on the social media ban, feelings of anger persisted, driven by the tragic losses and existing frustrations about high youth unemployment, which reportedly stands at 20%.

President Ram Chandra Poudel urged protesters to seek nonviolent solutions while managing the aftermath of the Prime Minister's resignation. The protests have been dubbed “the protest of Gen Z,” as many young people feel marginalized and resentful toward wealthy political families. Videos online depicted violent confrontations involving political figures, and amidst this turmoil, significant damage occurred, including the burning of prominent media and government buildings.

The unrest also highlighted broader government efforts to regulate social media, with pending legislation seen by many as an infringement on freedom of speech. Critics contend that the bill is an attempt to silence dissent against the government, requiring social media companies to establish local offices and face potential censoring if they fail to comply with these new regulations. This tense situation continues to evolve as both protesters and authorities navigate the ongoing clash over rights and governance in Nepal.