Curfew Imposed in Bara District Amid Nepal's Gen Z Protests

Post by : Raina Nasser

In Nepal, particularly in the Bara district, a curfew has been implemented after violent confrontations broke out between young Gen Z demonstrators and supporters of the former ruling party. This escalation occurs just months following a deadly Gen Z movement in September, which tragically resulted in over 76 fatalities.

The recent clashes took place on Wednesday in Simara, where protests by Gen Z activists encountered counter-demonstrations from the Communist Party of Nepal – Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), led by ousted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Scuffles erupted near Simara airport, leading authorities to prohibit public gatherings and enforce a curfew effective until 8 PM local time on Thursday in a bid to restore peace.

Despite the unrest, law enforcement reports indicate that the situation is largely manageable, with no serious injuries recorded. Prime Minister Sushila Karki has appealed for calm and urged all factions to refrain from political provocations, highlighting the significance of upholding trust in the democratic process before the national elections set for March 5, 2026.

She has also instructed security forces to ensure peace and facilitate the safe movement of political leaders across all parties. Furthermore, she convened a meeting with representatives from over 110 political entities, emphasizing the necessity for visionary leadership from a new generation to guide the nation forward.

The initial Gen Z protests erupted last September following an abrupt government ban on social media, which ignited widespread fury. The demonstrations quickly escalated into violence, driven by public discontent over economic stagnation and corruption, ultimately leading to the removal of Prime Minister Oli. During those protests, several government facilities, including courts and parliamentary buildings, faced extensive damage.

The recent violence in Bara district highlights ongoing tensions as Nepal gears up for its forthcoming elections. Authorities are vigilantly observing the situation to avert further disturbances and maintain societal order.