Nepal has plunged into political turmoil after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigned, sparking widespread protests led by the Gen Z youth across Kathmandu and other parts of the country. Demonstrations turned violent as protesters stormed key government buildings, including the Parliament and Prime Minister’s Office, and set fire to the private residences of President Ram Chandra Poudel, Oli, and several former prime ministers.

In response to the escalating crisis, the Nepal Army, along with top security officials, urged for calm and called for dialogue as the only solution to restore order. The Army vowed to protect the country’s sovereignty, independence, and the lives and property of its citizens, while closely monitoring the ongoing Gen Z-led movement.

Army Deployed Across Kathmandu

To maintain security, the Nepal Army has been patrolling major cities, including the Kathmandu Valley, since early morning. Army personnel used loudspeakers to urge citizens to refrain from joining protests and to cooperate in ensuring peace.

Nepal Army Takes Control of Airport

As protests intensified, the Nepal Army took control of Tribhuvan International Airport after demonstrators attempted to breach its premises. Flight operations were partially suspended as a precautionary measure. Air India, which operates six daily flights between New Delhi and Kathmandu, cancelled four of its services. Other airlines, including IndiGo and Nepal Airlines, also suspended their Delhi–Kathmandu routes for the day.

Prime Minister Modi Appeals for Peace

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep concern over the violence in Nepal and the loss of 20 young lives. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) written in Nepali, Modi described the situation as “heart-wrenching” and stressed the importance of Nepal’s stability, peace, and prosperity. He appealed to the people of Nepal to maintain peace and order during this challenging time.

Talks Between Army and Gen Z Protesters

In an effort to mediate the crisis, the Army Chief met with Gen Z protesters overnight to understand their demands. The Nepal Army is facilitating preparations for talks between President Ram Chandra Poudel and the Gen Z representatives, as the unrest continues to unfold.

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