Kathmandu – In an unprecedented move, the Nepal Army has enforced nationwide restrictive orders and a curfew across the country in an effort to prevent escalating violence disguised as public protest. The measures, effective from Wednesday morning until 6 a.m. Thursday, come after days of rising tension and public outcry over corruption and censorship.
According to a statement issued by the Army, all demonstrations, acts of vandalism, arson, and attacks on people or property will be considered criminal offenses and met with strict action. The restrictive orders were active from morning until 5 p.m., after which a curfew has been enforced until the following morning.
The military highlighted that the actions were necessary due to growing threats, not only of political violence but also of rape, looting, and physical attacks on civilians under the guise of protests. The unrest has been largely fueled by a Gen Z-led protest movement, demanding systemic reforms and accountability.
Essential services—such as ambulances, fire services, healthcare workers, and the security forces—have been exempted from the restrictions to ensure public welfare is not compromised.
This drastic step follows a dramatic resignation by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Tuesday, merely hours after hundreds of protesters stormed his office, holding him responsible for the death of 19 protesters during Monday’s police crackdown. Many had gathered in defiance of a now-lifted social media ban, calling for transparency and justice.
Despite his resignation and the lifting of the online ban, the agitation continued, turning violent, with protesters setting fire to Parliament, the President’s Office, the Prime Minister’s residence, and other government properties. Even homes and offices of top political leaders were not spared.
