Nepal PM resigns after residence torched, Indian nationals urged to stay cautious
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Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday after protesters set his private residence on fire.
The unrest, led by youth, entered its second day following the government’s order to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and X, for not registering with authorities.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India advised Indian citizens in Nepal to exercise caution and follow the guidelines issued by the Nepali government. “As a close friend and neighbour, we hope that all concerned will excercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue,” the MEA added.
The protests began on Monday when Nepal’s government ordered the social media ban. After violence broke out, leaving at least 19 dead and over 300 injured, the government withdrew the ban.
The MEA expressed sorrow over the casualties, saying, “We are closely monitoring the developments in Nepal since yesterday and are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with families of deceased. We also wish speedy recovery for those who were injured.”
PM Oli blamed vested interests for escalating the protest. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic incident that took place during the protest called by the Gen-Z generation today,” he said. “While we were confident that our children would peacefully voice their demands, the situation that arose due to the infiltration of the protest by various vested interests has resulted in the tragic loss of citizenslives.”
Protesters also attacked the residence of former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ in Lalitpur. Additionally, authorities imposed restrictions from 8:30 am until further notice in Madhyapur Thimi, Suryabinayak, Changunarayan and Bhaktapur municipalities.
According to Kathmandu Post, all flights at Tribhuvan International Airport were cancelled on Tuesday amid the unrest. The situation remains tense as the government investigates the events leading to the violence.