Select Language:
Clashes erupted in Kathmandu following the police killing of 19 protesters during anti-corruption demonstrations. A military convoy rolled past a charred vehicle near the Singha Durbar complex, which houses the Prime Minister’s office and other government offices, as tensions escalated on September 10, 2025, with protests turning violent. The city’s airport has been shut down until Wednesday evening, while nationwide prohibitory orders remain in effect through Thursday. Authorities, including the military, are working together to manage the situation.
Nepal’s parliament was heavily guarded by armed troops amid deserted streets after the implementation of an indefinite curfew. The violence was triggered by a social media ban, which was eventually rescinded, but not before deadly clashes resulted in multiple casualties and extensive damage. Several government buildings, including courts and ministers’ residences, were torched during Tuesday’s unrest. A woman, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of a former prime minister, died after her home was allegedly set ablaze by protesters.
Military spokesman Raja Ram Basnet emphasized efforts to restore calm, stating, “Our priority is to protect lives and property.” Despite the tense atmosphere, shops and markets have remained closed, with army vehicles patrolling quiet streets.
In response to the chaos, the army announced that prohibitory orders would stay in place until Thursday morning and indicated that discussions were underway between the government and protesters. Although details remain unclear, reports suggest that negotiations may be imminent. A former Supreme Court judge called for the dissolution of parliament and new elections, urging dialogue and the formation of a caretaker government.
The protests primarily involve young people frustrated with the government’s perceived failure to tackle corruption and improve economic prospects. Decades of lack of employment have pushed millions to seek work abroad in countries like Malaysia, the Middle East, and South Korea, mainly in construction, to support their families.
Nepal, situated between India and China, has faced ongoing political and economic instability since the monarchy was abolished in 2008. India’s security cabinet also convened to discuss the Nepal situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi later issued a message on X, emphasizing the importance of stability, peace, and prosperity in Nepal, and called on all Nepalese to maintain order.