Kathmandu — In a significant move aimed at restoring order, the Nepal Army has imposed nationwide restrictive orders from early Wednesday morning until 5 PM, followed by a strict curfew lasting until 6 AM Thursday. The decision comes amid growing tensions and fears of violent unrest under the pretense of protest.
The Army, in an official statement, warned that any demonstrations, vandalism, arson, or violence against individuals or property will be treated as criminal activity and responded to with full legal force.
The restrictive measures have been introduced to prevent possible looting, destruction, and threats of sexual and physical violence, the statement revealed. This comes in the wake of alarming reports following massive youth-led protests, which escalated on Monday.
Essential services — such as ambulances, fire brigades, healthcare workers, and security forces — will be exempt from the curfew to ensure uninterrupted public safety and healthcare support.
The unrest intensified after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday evening. His resignation came just hours after a wave of youth protesters, particularly from Gen Z, stormed his office demanding justice over the deaths of at least 19 people in police action during anti-corruption protests. The government’s temporary ban on social media, which fueled further outrage, was lifted late Monday night — but the protests have persisted.
The situation turned increasingly volatile with protesters torching major landmarks, including Parliament, the President’s Office, the Prime Minister’s residence, and political party offices. Several homes of senior leaders were also attacked and burned, signaling a dangerous escalation of public anger and distrust.
