Nepal Gen-Z Protest: A curfew has been imposed in parts of Nepal following fresh clashes that erupted on Thursday between young protesters and loyalists of the former ruling party. At least 10 people were reportedly injured as tensions escalated in Simara. The deadly Gen Z uprising that started two months ago during September toppled the government of then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
Curfew To Remain In Force Until 8 Pm
The Gen Z demonstrators took to the streets of the Bara district, reigniting tensions for the second consecutive day. Local authorities stated that the curfew will remain in effect from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday to restore order after unrest intensified in Simara.
Gatherings were restricted in Bara district bordering Bihar, where young protestors clashed with supporters of ousted Former PM KP Sharma Oli’s Communist Party, Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML). The situation worsened on Wednesday both groups held rallies in the Simara area. Shortly after, a scuffle broke out between them, prompting authorities to impose a curfew near the airport and several other places.
PM Sushila Karki Appeals For Peace
Nepal police spokesman Abi Narayan Kafle told news agency AFP, “The situation is normal… No one was severely injured.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sushila Karki called on both sides “to refrain from unwanted political provocation.”
The tension and violence seen today in Simara, Bara is extremely sad. I would like to make it clear that this kind of chaos is never acceptable in a democracy. We have taken the anger and political discontent of the youth seriously. Respect for freedom of expression is our commitment. But this does not mean damage to public property, disruption at the airport or taking the law into our own hands. I have directed the Home Administration and security agencies to work with utmost restraint and full preparation to maintain peace and order, ensure the safe movement of leaders of all political parties, and create a fair and fear-free environment for the elections. Only through a democratic system can the real expectations of the youth be fulfilled. Therefore, I sincerely appeal to all parties to refrain from unwanted political incitement and to have faith in the democratic process,” Karki said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Nepal’s Gen Z Protest
At least 76 people were killed during protests on September 8 and 9. The demonstrations led by ‘Gen Z’ protestors were triggered over a brief government ban on social media platforms.
