Kathmandu: Following Monday’s deadly crackdown that left 19 young protesters dead, senior political leaders in Kathmandu are preparing to leave the capital amid escalating demonstrations, security sources said.
Citizens of all age groups have taken to the streets, not only protesting but also targeting the residences of top leaders with vandalism and arson. The escalating unrest has prompted the deployment of three military helicopters at Baluwatar to evacuate leaders from the city.
Local reports indicate that residents across Kathmandu, including youth, adults, and women, have joined the protests. Parents and siblings have come out to support the demonstrators. Despite curfews, protests continue in several areas of the capital and across the country.
The demonstrations erupted after the government’s use of force on Monday killed young students, triggering widespread outrage. Neighborhoods across the valley have seen spontaneous protests, spreading from Baneshwor to major intersections. Notable figures, including former Chief Justice Sushila Karki and actor Manoj Gajurel, have reportedly joined the street protests.
Analysts say Monday’s violence marks one of the deadliest crackdowns on civilians in Nepal’s recent history. Citizens and political observers have criticized Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s government, describing it as increasingly authoritarian.
Protests are ongoing nationwide, with no immediate resolution in sight.