KATHMANDU, 10 Sept — The Nepal army on Wednesday imposed nationwide restrictive orders from morning until 5 p.m., followed by a curfew lasting until 6 a.m. Thursday, in a bid to curb escalating violence linked to ongoing protests.
In a statement, the army warned that any demonstrations, vandalism, arson, or attacks against individuals and property during this period would be treated as criminal offenses and met with strict action. “Keeping in view the security situation of the country, restrictive orders and a curfew have been enforced,” the statement said.
The army added that vehicles and personnel engaged in essential services, including ambulances, fire engines, health workers, and security forces, would be allowed to operate during the restrictions. The measures were deemed necessary to prevent looting, arson, and other destructive acts disguised as protests. “There are also possible threats of rape and violent attacks against individuals,” the statement noted.
The restrictions follow a wave of unrest sparked by the government’s temporary ban on social media and allegations of corruption, which had triggered large-scale protests, particularly by younger generations. The unrest intensified after at least 19 people died in police action during demonstrations on Monday.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned Tuesday, shortly after hundreds of protesters stormed his office demanding accountability for the deaths. Despite his resignation and the lifting of the social media ban Monday night, demonstrations continued, with protesters setting fire to the Parliament, the President’s Office, the Prime Minister’s residence, government buildings, political party offices, and homes of senior leaders.
Read more: Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli Resigns Amid Deadly Gen Z Protests
