Kathmandu : The Nepal Army has assumed control of law and order across the country, imposing a nationwide curfew on Wednesday, effective until Thursday morning. The measure aims to curb ongoing unrest and rising threats to public safety.
Under the Local Administration Act 1971, the District Administration Office, a civilian authority under the Home Ministry, had enforced curfew rules until now. With civilian authorities struggling during Wednesday’s Gen Z protests—which saw mobs vandalise government buildings and torch private properties—the Army stepped in to restore order.
Officials said the curfew will remain in effect nationwide until 6 a.m. Thursday. They will decide on any further extensions depending on how the situation evolves.
The Army stated, “Various anarchist individuals and groups infiltrated the protests and engaged in vandalism, arson, looting, and targeted attacks under the guise of demonstrations.”
Army personnel are patrolling streets and announcing curfew rules. They allow essential service vehicles, including ambulances, hearses, fire brigades, health worker transport, and sanitation vehicles, to operate. They have asked local residents to cooperate with nearby security personnel to ensure smooth operations.
The Army warned that anyone committing vandalism, looting, arson, or attacking people and property under the pretext of protests will face strict legal action.
On Wednesday, the Army arrested 27 individuals allegedly involved in destructive and disorderly activities. They dispatched three fire engines to control ongoing fires, including at the Singh Durbar government complex and the Supreme Court, which continued burning until Wednesday morning. Firefighters rushed to the Supreme Court to extinguish the blaze.
The Army also requested a list of Gen Z leaders for dialogue on settling the nation’s political future following Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation.
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