Curfew Lifted in Nepal as Citizens React to Violent Protests
New Delhi: In a significant turn of events, the curfew imposed in Nepal was lifted on Saturday morning, just hours after Sushila Karki was sworn in as the country’s interim prime minister. Citizens of Kathmandu, eager to document the aftermath of the recent violent protests, flooded the streets to capture images and videos of the destruction left behind.
Background of the Protests
The unrest began earlier in the week, ignited by a controversial ban on 26 social media platforms. What started as a peaceful demonstration quickly escalated into chaos, with protesters clashing violently with law enforcement. The situation deteriorated further when demonstrators attacked government buildings, leading to police firing on the crowds. Despite the government’s decision to rescind the ban, the protests continued, fueled by deeper grievances against the ruling authorities.
The protests culminated in a wave of violence that left at least 51 people dead, marking one of the most severe outbreaks of civil unrest in Nepal since the end of the civil war in 2006 and the subsequent abolition of the monarchy in 2008. The scale of the violence has drawn comparisons to previous political upheavals in the region, highlighting the fragile state of governance in Nepal.
The Aftermath of Violence
As the curfew was lifted, citizens emerged to witness the devastation. Many took to social media to share their experiences, documenting the charred remains of the Parliament building, the Supreme Court, and various government offices. The sight of these once-stately structures reduced to ruins served as a stark reminder of the volatility that has gripped the nation.
Sarita Karki, a local resident, expressed her determination to see the damage firsthand. “As soon as I heard that the curfew was relaxed, I got on my scooter and decided to come here. I will go to the Hilton Hotel after this. So far we have only seen videos of the attack. I have decided to go to all the places,” she stated, reflecting the curiosity and concern shared by many.
Security Measures and Ongoing Tensions
Despite the lifting of the curfew, security remains a top priority. Army personnel continue to patrol the streets, particularly in areas where reports of looting and violence have emerged. Criminal elements reportedly gained access to weapons from police armories during the chaos, and several inmates escaped from jails across multiple districts, raising alarms about public safety.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Binod Gurung confirmed the situation, stating, “For now, the curfew has been lifted. The district administration will tell us if it has to be put back in place again or not.” This cautious approach underscores the ongoing tensions and the potential for further unrest.
The Role of Leadership
Sushila Karki, who made history as Nepal’s first female chief justice, now faces the daunting task of stabilizing a nation in turmoil. Her appointment comes at a critical juncture, as the country grapples with widespread discontent and calls for reform. As of now, Karki has not announced the names of her cabinet ministers, leaving many to speculate about her plans for governance.
An official from the President’s office, speaking on the condition of anonymity, indicated that announcements regarding the new cabinet would be made soon, depending on the evolving situation. The leadership transition is seen as a pivotal moment for Nepal, with many citizens hoping for a fresh start amid the chaos.
Historical Context
Nepal’s political landscape has been marked by instability and conflict for decades. The end of the civil war in 2006 was supposed to usher in a new era of democracy, but the country has struggled with governance issues, corruption, and public dissatisfaction. The recent protests reflect a growing frustration among citizens who feel their voices are not being heard.
Historically, social media has played a crucial role in mobilizing protests across the globe. In Nepal, the ban on social media platforms was perceived as an attempt to stifle dissent, further inflaming public anger. The events of this week serve as a reminder of the power of digital communication in shaping political discourse and mobilizing citizens.
Conclusion
As Nepal navigates this turbulent period, the lifting of the curfew marks a tentative step towards normalcy. However, the underlying issues that sparked the protests remain unresolved. The new leadership under Sushila Karki will be closely watched as citizens hope for meaningful change and a return to stability. The resilience of the Nepali people, coupled with their demand for accountability, will undoubtedly shape the future of the nation in the days to come.
