The Nepal Army has clamped down on the country with nationwide restrictive orders from morning until 5 PM, followed by a strict curfew until 6 AM Thursday, in a bid to quell escalating violence and chaos triggered by widespread protests. The measures come as Nepal reels from a turbulent political crisis that forced Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli to resign on Tuesday, following deadly clashes that claimed at least 19 lives during Gen Z-led demonstrations against government corruption and a controversial social media ban.

The Army issued a stern warning, stating that any acts of vandalism, arson, or violence targeting individuals and property during the restrictive period or curfew would be treated as criminal offenses, with perpetrators facing severe consequences. “The security situation demands these measures to prevent looting, arson, and potential threats like rape or violent attacks,” the Army’s statement read, highlighting the gravity of the unrest that has gripped the nation.

The protests, initially sparked by public outrage over the government’s social media ban, spiraled into widespread anarchy. Demonstrators, predominantly from the Gen Z demographic, stormed key government buildings, setting fire to the Parliament, the President’s Office, the Prime Minister’s residence, and the homes of senior political leaders. Political party offices were also targeted, with reports of vandalism and destruction intensifying the crisis. Although the social media ban was lifted on Monday night, the agitation has shown no signs of abating, with protesters continuing to demand accountability for the deaths during Monday’s police crackdowns.

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Essential services, including ambulances, fire engines, health workers, and security forces, have been exempted from the restrictive orders and curfew to ensure critical operations continue uninterrupted. The Nepal Army emphasized its commitment to restoring order, stating that the measures were essential to safeguard public safety and prevent further destruction. As the nation remains on edge, international observers, including neighboring countries like India, are closely monitoring the situation, with concerns mounting over the stability of Nepal’s political landscape.

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