Kathmandu/New Delhi, Sept 9 — Nepal continues to reel under violent anti-government protests led by its younger generation, with demonstrations entering a second straight day despite curfews and heightened security. The movement, dubbed the Gen Z Protests, erupted after the Oli government blocked 26 social media platforms, sparking a broader wave of anger against corruption, inequality, and lack of opportunities.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned following 27 hours of escalating violence, while India called for peace and stepped up border security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in New Delhi to assess the situation and appealed for calm in the Himalayan nation.
Key Updates
PM Modi on Nepal violence
PM Modi termed the events in Nepal “heart-rending” and urged all sides to maintain peace and order, stressing India’s solidarity with the Nepali people during this difficult time.
Nepal Army takes charge of security
The Nepal Army announced it would assume command of security operations from 10 pm. It warned that “groups exploiting the crisis” were endangering citizens and property, and vowed to deploy all security mechanisms if violence persisted.
US embassy reschedules appointments
The US Embassy in Kathmandu said all consular appointments for this week had been postponed and asked applicants to await rescheduling before visiting.
Who will replace Oli?
With KP Oli’s resignation, Nepal faces political uncertainty. President Ram Chandra Paudel confirmed that Oli’s Cabinet would function in a caretaker role until a new government is formed. Under Article 76(5) of Nepal’s Constitution, any lawmaker can stake a claim to form the government with majority support. However, unrest on the streets may challenge a purely constitutional solution.
UP Police steps up border vigilance
UP Police deployed additional forces and tightened surveillance in districts bordering Nepal. Social media is also being monitored for sensitive Nepal-related content, said ADG Amitabh Yash.
Indian FMCG firms monitor Nepal situation
Indian FMCG giants including Dabur, ITC, Britannia, Marico, Patanjali, and Reliance Consumer are closely watching the turmoil. Many operate manufacturing units or partnerships in Nepal and have activated contingency plans.
Indian embassy issues emergency email ID
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu shared an emergency contact email — helpdesk.eoiktm@gmail.com — alongside helpline numbers already in circulation, urging Indian nationals to stay in touch for assistance.
The Crisis at a Glance
-
Trigger: Government ban on 26 social media platforms, lifted after one day.
-
Casualties: At least 20 killed, 250 injured in police firing and clashes.
-
Escalation: Protesters stormed leaders’ homes, torched the house of Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung in Lalitpur, and forced Oli’s resignation.
-
Security: Curfews in several Kathmandu districts; Nepal Army mobilised.
-
Regional Impact: India-Nepal border on alert; airlines suspended flights to Kathmandu; Indian businesses and FMCG firms monitoring situation.