Nepal's Gen Z Protests Escalate: Army Deploys Troops Amid Widespread Destruction and Death

Nepal's Gen Z Protests Leave Trail of Destruction, Death KATHMANDU, Nepal - In a dramatic escalation of protests that began on Monday, the Nepali army deployed troops to restore order in the capital city of Kathmandu on Tuesday night. The move came after prominent government buildings were set ablaze, politicians were attacked, and violent clashes erupted between protesters and government forces. At least 19 people have been killed in the protests and more than 200 others were admitted to the hospital due to injuries, according to Nepal's Civil Service Hospital. The protests, led by young people frustrated over corruption and the ban on several social media platforms by the government, have left a trail of destruction and death. The protesters, mostly from the Gen Z generation, are demanding an end to corruption and better economic opportunities. "We want change," said Rohan Shrestha, 22, who was among the protesters. "We're tired of living in poverty while our leaders live in luxury." The protests began on Monday when thousands of young people took to the streets, blocking major roads and highways. The government responded with force, using tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowds. Nepal's Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli stepped down earlier in the day, citing the ongoing fallout from the protests. "I take full responsibility for the situation," he said in a statement. "I will do everything in my power to restore peace and order." The protests have been fueled by widespread discontent among young people over unemployment, poverty, and corruption. According to the Nepal Living Standard Survey 2019, more than half of Nepal's youth are unemployed. "This is not just about social media or online freedom," said Dr. Sujan Shrestha, a professor at Tribhuvan University. "It's about the future of our country. Young people want a better life, and they're demanding it." The government has banned several social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter, citing concerns over national security. However, many see this as an attempt to suppress dissenting voices. "This is a classic case of authoritarianism," said Dr. Shrestha. "The government is trying to silence the people, but they're only making things worse." As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is watching with concern. The United Nations has called for calm and restraint from all parties involved. The Nepali army will continue to maintain a strong presence in the capital city, and the government has announced plans to establish a new committee to address the demands of the protesters. In the meantime, young people like Rohan Shrestha remain resolute. "We'll keep fighting for our rights," he said. "We won't back down until we get what we want." Background: Nepal is one of the poorest countries in South Asia, with widespread poverty and unemployment among its youth. The government has been criticized for corruption and mismanagement, leading to growing discontent among young people. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Sujan Shrestha, professor at Tribhuvan University: "This is not just about social media or online freedom. It's about the future of our country. Young people want a better life, and they're demanding it." Rohan Shrestha, 22-year-old protester: "We want change. We're tired of living in poverty while our leaders live in luxury." Current Status: The Nepali army has deployed troops to restore order in the capital city, and the government has announced plans to establish a new committee to address the demands of the protesters. Next Developments: The situation is expected to remain tense in the coming days as the government and protesters continue to negotiate. The international community will be watching closely for any further developments. *Reporting by Npr.*