KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Fires rage unchecked as protesters torch Nepal’s key state institutions
Authorities have failed to bring under control massive blazes that engulfed several of Nepal’s most important public institutions after protesters set them on fire on Tuesday. Singha Durbar, the country’s central administrative hub, the Supreme Court building, and the Parliament complex remain ablaze hours after demonstrators stormed and torched the compounds. Witnesses said crucial documents, archives, and historic records are burning inside. Despite widespread destruction, firefighting resources have been scarce. Officials at Juddha Fire Brigade admitted that without full-scale mobilization, it could take days to extinguish the flames in such large structures. By Tuesday evening, arson had spread beyond the three state organs. Protesters attacked and set fire to the Office of the President in Maharajgunj, the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, police stations across the capital, and even some media outlets. Homes of senior politicians and commercial complexes have also been targeted.
Protesters have set fire to the premises of the Supreme Court, escalating tensions in the capital following the earlier breach of Singha Durbar. The demonstration, led by Gen-Z protesters, has taken a more aggressive turn, with multiple government buildings and official residences targeted throughout the day. The attack on the Supreme Court marks a serious intensification of the unrest, raising concerns over the safety of vital democratic institutions and prompting calls for immediate national dialogue and de-escalation.
Gen-Z protest: Prime Minister Oli steps down
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation today in a stunning political turn as nationwide protests intensify. The resignation follows days of mounting pressure and mass demonstrations by the Gen-Z movement, which erupted in response to government restrictions on social media and alleged violent crackdowns on peaceful protesters. In his resignation letter, Oli noted that he had been appointed Prime Minister on Asar 31, 2081 (July 15, 2024) under Article 76(2) of the Constitution. However, citing the “extraordinary circumstances” facing the country, he said he was resigning under Article 77(1)(a), effective immediately, to pave the way for a constitutional and political resolution to the crisis. “The situation has demanded a broader initiative for constitutional and political settlement. Therefore, I hereby resign from the post of Prime Minister effective today,” Oli wrote in his letter. Oli’s exit marks a dramatic shift in Nepal’s political landscape, signaling potential openings for political realignment and public reform.
President Paudel calls protestors for dialogue and cooperation
President Ram Chandra Paudel has urged all parties to work together to find a peaceful solution amid the ongoing national crisis. In a statement released Tuesday, President Poudel said, “With the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli now accepted, I trust that all sides will cooperate to resolve the issues in the interest of the country, its people, and democracy.” The President said the demands of citizens can be addressed through democratic processes and appealed to the Gen-Z protesters and all stakeholders to engage in dialogue and negotiations. He also called on everyone to exercise restraint to maintain peace and stability in the country.
Nepali Army appeals for restraint and protection of national assets
The Nepali Army has issued an appeal for restraint amid escalating unrest, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding the lives of the Nepali people and the sovereignty of the nation. In a statement on Tuesday, the Nepali Army urged all sides to avoid further escalation and called on the public to help protect the country’s historical, cultural, archaeological, and national assets during this difficult period. The Army stressed that it is the shared responsibility of all citizens to preserve national heritage and maintain peace.
President evacuated by Nepal Army after protestors set fire to official residence
Protesters have set fire to the President’s Office in Maharajgunj. In response to the attack, the Nepal Army evacuated President Ram Chandra Paudel by helicopter to Shivapuri, where a military training center is located, ensuring his safety. Earlier, the Army had also evacuated Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli from Baluwatar amid the rising protests. The demonstrations, which began in response to Monday’s crackdown that left 19 young protesters dead, have spread across the country, targeting government offices, political leaders’ residences, and major institutions.
Protesters assault Sher Bahadur Deuba and Arzu Deuba
Former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Arju Rana Deuba, were assaulted by protesters during escalating Gen-Z demonstrations across the capital. Angry youths participating in the protest have also targeted the Singha Durbar complex, the Parliament building, and the private residences of senior political leaders, engaging in arson and vandalism. Party offices and police stations have not been spared, with continuous incidents of destruction reported throughout the day. Authorities are struggling to contain the violence as protesters continue to move through key government and political sites in Kathmandu.
RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane released from Nakkhu Prison
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane has been released from Nakkhu Prison. According to a party leader, Lamichhane’s release came after prison authorities informed the party that they could no longer guarantee his security. “His family has taken custody after the administration asked them to ensure his safety,” the leader said. His wife, Nikita Poudel, arrived at the prison to receive him. A large number of supporters had gathered outside the Nakkhu gate in solidarity. Upon his release, Lamichhane greeted the cheering crowd, waving to the protesters as he joined them.
Mayor Balen urges Gen-Z protesters to exercise restraint
Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah has called on Gen-Z protesters to show restraint amid the ongoing unrest. In a message shared on social media, Shah appealed for calm as tensions escalate across the country. “You and I must now exercise restraint. It is your generation that will have to lead the nation from here on,” he wrote. “Be prepared.”
Protesters set fire to Supreme Court
Protesters have set fire to the premises of the Supreme Court, escalating tensions in the capital following the earlier breach of Singha Durbar. The demonstration, led by Gen-Z protesters, has taken a more aggressive turn, with multiple government buildings and official residences targeted throughout the day. Since early morning, protestors have been vandalizing and setting fire to the homes of senior political leaders, government offices, police stations, and key state institutions. The attack on the Supreme Court marks a serious intensification of the unrest, raising concerns over the safety of vital democratic institutions and prompting calls for immediate national dialogue and de-escalation.
Gen-Z protest: Prime Minister Oli steps down
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation today in a stunning political turn as nationwide protests intensify. The resignation follows days of mounting pressure and mass demonstrations by the Gen-Z movement, which erupted in response to government restrictions on social media and alleged violent crackdowns on peaceful protesters. Oli’s exit marks a dramatic shift in Nepal’s political landscape, signaling potential openings for political realignment and public reform.
Three police officers killed after surrendering in Koteshwor
Three police officers stationed at Koteshwor were brutally killed by protesters after they had already surrendered. According to eyewitness accounts, protesters first set fire to the police division office before dragging officers into the street. Despite laying down their arms, the three officers were beaten to death by the mob. The Nepal Police Headquarters in Naxal confirmed the killings, describing them as a barbaric act that underscored the worsening security situation in the capital.
Gen-Z protest should remain peaceful, solutions must come from within: Former King Gyanendra
Former King Gyanendra Shah urged that the growing movement sparked by Gen-Z protests should remain peaceful and be resolved internally. In a statement issued on Tuesday by his dialogue secretariat, Shah emphasized the importance of non-violence and national unity in addressing the unrest. “This movement of the new generation must not turn violent, must not descend into chaos, and must not be infiltrated by any external forces,” the statement read. It further expressed hope that the grievances—particularly concerning good governance and economic discipline—could be addressed domestically through sincere efforts and dialogue.
Tribhuvan International Airport closed amid security concerns
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has been completely shut down due to escalating unrest and growing safety concerns in surrounding areas, including fire incidents in Gothatar. A senior official from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal confirmed the closure, citing unfavorable conditions for air safety. “After ensuring the safe landing of aircraft already in the air, all remaining flights were canceled and the airport has been closed until further notice,” the official said.
Protesters set fire to Prime Minister Oli’s residence in Balkot
Protesters have set fire to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s private residence in Balkot, Bhaktapur, amid intensifying anti-government demonstrations. Eyewitnesses report that a large group of demonstrators gathered outside the property before breaching the premises and setting parts of the house ablaze. Thick plumes of smoke were seen billowing from the residence as the fire spread. Security forces have been deployed to the area, but tensions remain high with a significant number of protesters still present.
Energy Minister Deepak Khadka’s residence vandalized and set on fire
Protesters vandalized and set fire to the residence of Energy Minister Deepak Khadka amid ongoing nationwide unrest. A large crowd of demonstrators gathered outside Khadka’s house in Budhanilkantha, forcefully breaking through security barriers. Witnesses reported that protesters scaled the compound wall, entered the premises, and began setting parts of the house ablaze. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the property as protesters continued to chant slogans against the government. Security personnel have been dispatched to the scene, but the situation remains tense.
NC President Deuba’s residence vandalized
Protesters vandalized the residence of Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba on Tuesday, amid intensifying demonstrations in the capital. The agitated crowd reportedly broke through the main gate and entered Deuba’s house in Budhanilkantha despite security efforts to contain the situation. In a separate incident, the residence of Congress leader and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was set on fire in Naikap, Kathmandu.
India says it is closely monitoring developments in Nepal
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has affirmed that it is closely observing recent events unfolding in Nepal, expressing deep sadness over the tragic loss of young lives during ongoing demonstrations. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry conveyed its sorrow: “We are closely monitoring developments in Nepal since yesterday. We are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives.” The statement extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
Demonstrators hurl stones at Prachanda’s residence in Khumaltar
Amid escalating protests in the capital, demonstrators on Tuesday hurled stones at the private residence of Maoist Center Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ in Khumaltar. The incident followed the arson of a nearby police station. The crowd then proceeded to Dahal’s residence, where they reportedly threw stones at the building.
Indefinite curfew imposed within Kathmandu Ring Road area
The Kathmandu District Administration Office has imposed an indefinite curfew within the Ring Road area of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, effective from 8:30 AM today. The curfew order was issued Tuesday morning by Chief District Officer Chhabilal Rijal under Section 6A of the Local Administration Act, 2028.
Diplomatic missions in Kathmandu call for protection of civil liberties
: The embassies of Australia, Finland, France, Japan, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States in Nepal issued a joint statement expressing deep sorrow over the violence that erupted during Monday’s Gen-Z-led protests in Kathmandu and other parts of the country. In the statement, the seven diplomatic missions extended their condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to all those affected by the unrest. They also wished a swift and full recovery to the injured. “We are deeply saddened by the violence seen in Kathmandu and elsewhere in Nepal on Monday, including the tragic loss of life and injury during demonstrations,” the statement read.
Nepal Airlines Operators’ Association denies helicopter flights for politicians amid crisis
The Nepal Airlines Operators’ Association has clarified that its helicopters have not transported any politicians or ministers during the recent political unrest. In a statement released Tuesday evening, Chairman Manoj Karki addressed rumors that politicians had been flown to safe locations using privately operated helicopters. He called the claims “baseless and misleading” and urged the public not to believe them. Karki added that passengers who could not fly due to the unusual circumstances will receive full refunds from member airlines.
Over 570 inmates escape after jail wall breached in Jaleshwar
At least 572 inmates escaped from Jaleshwar prison in Mahottari after protesters and prisoners together breached the prison wall. Deputy Superintendent of Police Heramba Sharma said the incident occurred around 7 p.m. when more than 500 protesters arrived at the prison. He added that prisoners were armed only with kitchen tools, while protesters had crowbars, leaving police unable to intervene. The situation in Jaleshwar remains tense. Security agencies are holding emergency meetings, and the District Administration Office has imposed a curfew from 6:40 p.m. today until 8 a.m. tomorrow.
Protesters attack Gautam Buddha International Airport, set vehicles on fire
Protesters have attacked Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, setting fire to vehicles in the airport parking area. Airport General Manager Pratap Babu Tiwari confirmed that five four-wheeled and two two-wheeled vehicles were damaged in the incident. He added that critical airport infrastructure was not significantly affected.
Former PM Jhalanath Khanal’s wife dies
Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, has died after being set on fire inside her home. The incident occurred at their residence in Dallu, where protesters reportedly trapped her inside and set the house ablaze. She was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital in critical condition but succumbed to her injuries during treatment, according to family sources. The incident adds to the growing list of casualties and intensifies concerns over the violent turn of the nationwide Gen-Z demonstrations. Authorities have yet to issue a statement regarding the attack.
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