Nepal Army Imposes Curfew, Urges Protesters to Surrender Firearms Amid Violent Unrest

Kathmandu: In an effort to restore order amid escalating violence, the Nepal Army on Wednesday called on ‘Gen Z’ protesters to surrender all unauthorised firearms and ammunition. The Army also imposed a nationwide curfew and advised citizens to remain indoors for safety.

According to an official statement, the Army warned that any acts of demonstration, vandalism, arson, or attacks on people and property during the curfew would be treated as criminal offenses and dealt with firmly. The restrictive orders are effective across Nepal from morning to 5 pm, followed by a curfew until 6 am Tuesday.

The Army said the measures were necessary to prevent looting, arson, and other violent acts under the guise of protests. The statement also highlighted the risk of rape and attacks against individuals if unrest continued. Essential services, including ambulances, fire services, health workers, and security personnel, are exempt from the restrictions.

Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel appealed to protesters to engage in dialogue. “We urge the protesting groups to halt their activities and come forward for dialogue to find a peaceful resolution. It is critical to normalize the situation, safeguard our national heritage, and ensure the safety of citizens and diplomatic missions,” he said in a televised address.

The Army’s intervention follows days of intense protests triggered by the government’s ban on social media platforms and rising public anger over corruption. The unrest, which began Monday, turned violent quickly, leading to over 20 deaths. Protesters also torched the residences of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, President Ram Chandra Poudel, and other ministers, prompting Oli to resign on Tuesday.