Nepal Gen Z protests: Army enforces nationwide curfew; soldiers guard parliament after 2 days of unrest

The Nepal army on Wednesday imposed a nationwide curfew following massive Gen Z-led protests that turned violent, leading to vandalism of key government buildings and attacks on top political leaders.Armed soldiers guarded Nepal’s parliament as Kathmandu streets lay deserted under an indefinite curfew.In its statement, the Army said, "Curfew currently imposed will continue throughout the country until 5 pm (1700 hrs) on Bhadra 25, 2082, and thereafter, the curfew order will continue until 6 am (0600 hrs) on Bhadra 26 (September 11) tomorrow."The statement added, "We express our gratitude to all citizens for their continued support in fulfilling their responsibility to maintain peace and security in the country in the current difficult situation. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life and property during the protests, everyone is requested to cooperate in efforts to control criminal activities. As various lawless individuals and groups are still infiltrating and committing acts of vandalism and arson, looting, violent attacks on individuals, and attempted rape in the name of the movement, keeping in mind the overall peace and security situation in the country, the curfew currently imposed will continue throughout the country until 5 pm (1700 hrs) on Bhadra 25, 2082, and thereafter, the curfew order will continue until 6 am (0600 hrs) on Bhadra 26 tomorrow, and further information will be disseminated based on the analysis of the situation."According to the Himalayan Times, essential vehicles, including ambulances, hearses, fire brigades, and those used by health workers and security personnel, will be allowed to operate during the curfew. The Nepalese army requested all citizens to coordinate with nearby security personnel for facilitation if necessary.It also appealed to retired soldiers, civil servants, journalists, and the general public not to fall for misinformation and to rely only on official notices. Emphasising unity, the army called on all Nepalis to help protect national integrity, maintain social harmony, and support security forces in safeguarding citizens and carrying out humanitarian assistance.