India has voiced deep concern over the spiraling crisis in Nepal that has left at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured. In a statement on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged all sides to exercise restraint and seek peaceful dialogue to resolve differences.
India’s Response to Nepal Violence
The MEA said, “We are closely monitoring developments in Nepal since yesterday and are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with families of the deceased. We also wish a speedy recovery for those injured.”
As a close neighbor and strategic partner, India reaffirmed its solidarity with Nepal, while noting the reimposition of curfew across Kathmandu and several other cities. Indian nationals in Nepal have been advised to remain cautious and follow local security guidelines.
Deadly Crackdown in Kathmandu
The violence erupted after Nepal’s government lifted a controversial ban on social media platforms. Demonstrations quickly escalated into clashes between protesters and security forces, leaving 19 people dead and more than 300 injured. Local authorities swiftly declared an indefinite curfew inside Kathmandu’s Ring Road area and extended it to other cities.
Reports confirm that security forces opened fire on demonstrators in Kathmandu and the eastern city of Itahari, marking the deadliest crackdown on civilian unrest in years. Many of the protesters were students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, accusing his government of corruption, authoritarian practices, and suppression of free expression.
Oli Resigns Amid Pressure
In a late-night address on Monday, Prime Minister Oli announced the withdrawal of the social media ban and promised an investigation panel, financial relief for victims’ families, and free medical treatment for the injured. However, his assurances failed to calm the unrest.
Protesters continued to defy curfews, demanding his immediate resignation and voicing frustration over unemployment, corruption, and restrictions on free speech. Facing mounting pressure and one of the deadliest civilian uprisings in recent memory, Oli has now stepped down, abruptly ending his tenure.
Global Reactions and Calls for Probe
The resignation comes amid international scrutiny. Amnesty International reported that live ammunition had been used against demonstrators, while the United Nations has called for a transparent and urgent investigation into the crackdown to arrest the rising protest situation.
As Nepal struggles with widespread destruction and ongoing protests, its political future remains uncertain. The unrest has highlighted deep public dissatisfaction with governance, raising questions about how the country will restore stability in the coming weeks.
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