Tensions in Nepal deepened on Wednesday after a large group of inmates from Kathmandu’s Dillibazar Jail stepped out of the prison premises, demanding their release amid the ongoing nationwide Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests.
The Nepalese Army was swiftly deployed in and around the jail to prevent any potential mass breakout, as police forces reportedly withdrew from several detention facilities—except the Police Headquarters—following two days of violent demonstrations in the capital.
With law enforcement pulling back, the Army has now assumed primary responsibility for prison security and maintaining order across Kathmandu.
The escalating unrest has drawn international concern. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, urging both protestors and authorities to exercise restraint. He stressed that demonstrations must remain peaceful, respecting both life and property, and called on authorities to comply with international human rights law.
Meanwhile, the Nepalese Army confirmed that 27 individuals involved in arson, looting, and violent acts—including in Kathmandu—were arrested between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Authorities also imposed prohibitory orders and extended a nationwide curfew, which will continue until 5:00 pm today and resume from 6:00 am on Thursday, September 11.
The crisis comes in the wake of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation on Tuesday, along with several ministers, as protests intensified.
The movement, which began on September 8 in Kathmandu and major cities like Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj, erupted after the government banned major social media platforms, citing tax revenue and cybersecurity concerns.
Protesters are demanding an end to corruption, nepotism, and favoritism in governance, greater accountability from the government, and the revocation of the controversial social media ban.
So far, at least 19 people have been killed and over 500 injured in clashes with security forces. The curfew remains in place across multiple cities to contain the unrest.