Nepal Unrest Claims 72 Lives as Protests Shake Capital Cities

Post by :

Photo:Reuters

Authorities in Nepal have raised the death toll from last week’s unrest to 72 people, with hundreds more injured, after violent protests erupted across the country. The Health Ministry reported that search teams are still recovering bodies from buildings, homes, and government offices set on fire during widespread demonstrations against corruption.

This unrest is being described as the deadliest political violence in Nepal in decades, fueled primarily by younger citizens, often referred to as Gen Z, who are frustrated with systemic corruption and lack of transparency in politics. The protests began in the capital, Kathmandu, and quickly spread to other major cities, including Pokhara, Lalitpur, and Biratnagar.

Security forces were deployed to maintain order, using tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons to disperse crowds. Despite these efforts, clashes between protesters and police escalated, leading to widespread destruction. Several government buildings were torched, including the Supreme Court, Parliament, and local municipal offices. Homes of politicians, police stations, and private businesses were also set on fire.

According to Health Ministry spokesperson Prakash Budathoki, many victims were found in shopping malls, private residences, and other public buildings that had been attacked or set ablaze. Earlier reports had indicated a death toll of 51, but this figure has been updated as search teams continue their recovery efforts. In total, more than 2,113 people have been injured in the violence, many requiring urgent medical care.

The intensity of the protests forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign on September 19, 2025, ending his tenure amid public outrage and rising violence. Oli had faced mounting criticism for alleged corruption, poor governance, and failing to address the needs of younger citizens.

In the wake of his resignation, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was appointed as the interim Prime Minister, making her the first woman to lead Nepal. She has been tasked with restoring order, overseeing reconstruction efforts, and preparing the country for parliamentary elections scheduled for March 5, 2026.

Ms. Karki officially assumed office on Sunday, September 14, 2025, beginning work in a government building near the Prime Minister’s office that had been severely damaged during the protests. She pledged that the government would provide 1 million Nepali rupees (approximately $7,100) in compensation to families of those who lost their lives and ensure free medical treatment for the injured.

In her first public address, Ms. Karki emphasized the need for national unity, stating, “We must now engage in rebuilding the destroyed structures and ensure that such violence does not recur. Our focus will be on safety, recovery, and democratic reform.”

The unrest has highlighted a significant generational divide in Nepalese politics. Young citizens, especially those born in the 1990s and early 2000s, have been outspoken against what they perceive as an entrenched political elite, sometimes called “nepo kids”, who benefit from nepotism and corruption. Analysts say these protests could mark a turning point in Nepalese democracy, showing how younger generations are demanding accountability and change.

International observers have expressed concern over the violence, urging the Nepalese government to protect human rights, respect the rule of law, and prevent further escalation. Humanitarian organizations have also mobilized to assist the injured and provide support to families affected by the unrest.

The scale of the destruction is vast. Entire neighborhoods were left without electricity and water after infrastructure was damaged during protests. Some areas experienced fires that destroyed shops, offices, and public buildings. The government has warned that reconstruction could take months, and efforts are already underway to restore essential services.

Experts say that while the protests were rooted in anti-corruption demands, the escalation into deadly violence shows the challenges Nepal faces in balancing democracy with public safety. Citizens are hopeful that the new interim government will focus on reforms, increase transparency, and engage young people in decision-making to prevent future unrest.

For the families affected, the toll is devastating. Many lost loved ones in homes or public buildings set ablaze, while others were injured while trying to flee. The interim government has promised psychological and social support for survivors and is working to identify and assist those most affected by the violence.

Looking ahead, the success of Nepal’s democratic process will depend on the ability of the interim government to rebuild trust, ensure accountability, and conduct fair elections. The Gen Z movement has already demonstrated its power to drive change, but the challenge remains to channel this energy into constructive political reform rather than destructive violence.

As Nepal begins this period of recovery and reflection, the country faces questions about governance, youth involvement in politics, and the protection of human life. Observers both inside and outside Nepal will be closely monitoring how the interim government addresses these urgent challenges.