Nepal’s Deadly Clashes: 2 Dead, Over 45 Injured As Curfew Imposed In Violence-Hit Districts

Kathmandu: The violent clashes in Nepal between the security personnel and pro-monarchy protestors on Friday resulted in the death of at least two people and injured over 45 others in Kathmandu. According to reports, dozens of buildings, shops and vehicles were set ablaze by the protestors during the violence. Meanwhile, in the wake of the deadly clashes, the government of Nepal have imposed a curfew in the violent hit areas. As per the officials, a curfew has been implemented in the Baneshwar-Tinkune and surrounding areas after pro-monarchy demonstrators wreaked havoc in various areas, including houses, shops, and several government properties. 

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, witnessed violent clashes between security personnel and pro-monarchy protesters on Friday. The protests, which began peacefully, turned chaotic as demonstrators broke through police barricades and set ablaze multiple buildings and vehicles. The situation escalated to the point where the District Administration Office was forced to impose a curfew in the Baneshwar-Tinkune and surrounding areas to restore order. 

According to reports, eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with protesters wielding sticks and stones, clashing with security forces who were trying to maintain order. Dozens of buildings and vehicles were set ablaze, including a building in Tinkune where a TV journalist, identified as Suresh Rajak, lost his life while filming footage. Apart from the journalist, one of the protestors was killed, identified as 29-year-old Sabin Maharjan from Kirtipur Municipality. The bodies of both the deceased were sent for post-mortem. 

Also Read | Flying to Delhi? Get Ready for a 400% Surge in Costs from April 16 | Read Details

Curfew Imposed In Violence-Hit Areas

Meanwhile, in response to the escalating violence, the District Administration Office imposed a curfew in the affected areas, effective from 4.25 pm to 10 pm. Chief District Officer Rishiram Tiwari stated that the order prohibits movement, gatherings, rallies, protests, assemblies, and demonstrations within the designated boundaries. The curfew area extends from Gaushala to the airport, Gairigaun, Tinkune, and Koteshwar, including several other locations. 

Pro-Monarchy Rally Turned Violent

The protests were sparked by a pro-monarchy rally that turned violent after protestors broke through police barricades near the Tinkune area. The rally, which had been designated by the district authority, was meant to be a peaceful assembly. However, things took a turn for the worse when protestors began damaging property and setting fires. The police responded with force, leading to clashes that left several people injured. As the situation continues to get tense, the Nepal administration is working to ensure that law and order are maintained in the violence-hit areas. 

The violent clashes in Kathmandu have raised questions about the role of the monarchy in Nepal's democracy. While some argue that the monarchy is a unifying force, others see it as a relic of the past that has no place in modern Nepal. The protests have also highlighted the deep-seated divisions within Nepalese society, with some groups demanding greater autonomy and others pushing for a more centralized government. As the country struggles to find its footing, one thing is certain: the future of Nepal's democracy hangs in the balance.