KATHMANDU, Sep 10: The Nepal Army on Wednesday imposed nationwide restrictive orders, followed by a curfew, to prevent possible violence after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigned amid massive anti-government protests. The army, which took control of security operations on Tuesday night after incidents of arson and vandalism, said restrictive orders would remain until 5 pm Wednesday, followed by a curfew until 6 am Thursday.
Kathmandu appeared deserted, with soldiers patrolling streets and urging residents to stay indoors, a day after protesters set fire to Parliament, the President’s Office, the PM’s residence, government buildings, the Supreme Court, political party offices, and homes of senior leaders. The army cited the measures as necessary to prevent looting, arson, and attacks on individuals or property “under the guise of agitation.”
The military warned that any demonstrations or vandalism during this period would be treated as criminal acts. Vehicles and personnel providing essential services, including ambulances, fire engines, health workers, and security forces, were permitted to operate. Authorities also urged citizens to return weapons looted during protests and warned against wearing army uniforms illegally.
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu was closed on Wednesday, affecting domestic and international flights, with no timeline for reopening. Authorities asked passengers and stakeholders to await updates.
The army has deployed troops to prevent further unrest and appealed for cooperation from the public, hotels, and tourism agencies to assist stranded foreign nationals. Security personnel arrested 27 people in connection with looting, arson, and vandalism, recovering cash, weapons, and ammunition from several areas of Kathmandu.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern, urging a thorough investigation into fatalities and calling for restraint, human rights compliance, and dialogue.
Oli resigned on Tuesday after protesters entered his office demanding his resignation over the deaths of at least 19 people in police action during Monday’s demonstrations over corruption and a social media ban. Despite the PM’s resignation and the lifting of the social media ban, protests continued, reflecting widespread public unrest across the country.
