The Nepal Army has assumed control of law and order across the country after violent protests led by Gen Z demonstrators spiraled into large-scale vandalism, arson, and clashes with authorities. A nationwide curfew was announced on Wednesday night, effective until Thursday morning, with the Army warning of strict action against acts of violence carried out under the guise of demonstrations.
Until now, curfew enforcement had remained under the jurisdiction of the District Administration Office, a civilian authority functioning under the Home Ministry. However, the scale of unrest on Wednesday, which saw government buildings and private properties vandalised and torched, compelled the Army to step in. In a late-night notice, the Army declared it was taking charge of the country’s law and order situation from 10 p.m. Tuesday.
Security officials said the prohibitory order, in force nationwide, would remain effective until 6 a.m. Thursday, with extensions to be decided depending on the evolving situation. Army personnel were deployed on the streets, making public announcements to ensure compliance with curfew orders. Vehicles providing essential services such as ambulances, hearses, fire brigades, health transport, and sanitation services were exempted, though coordination with nearby security personnel was advised for unhindered movement.
In its official statement, the Army alleged that anarchist individuals and groups had infiltrated the Gen Z movement and were engaging in looting, arson, and targeted attacks. It cautioned that such acts would be treated as criminal offences, inviting immediate and strict response from security forces.
According to reports, at least 27 people accused of participating in anarchic and destructive activities had been arrested by Wednesday morning. The Army also mobilised three fire engines to tackle blazes across the capital, including fires that raged through the Singh Durbar government complex and the Supreme Court building. Firefighters battled the flames into Wednesday morning, as images of smoke rising from key administrative centres circulated widely on local media.
The escalation of unrest comes against the backdrop of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation earlier this week, which has created a power vacuum. In a move seen as both conciliatory and strategic, the Army has sought a list of representatives from the Gen Z movement to hold discussions on shaping the country’s political future.
The demonstrations, initially driven by young activists pressing for systemic reforms, have morphed into a volatile mix of peaceful protests and violent confrontations. While many demonstrators continue to call for broader political accountability, the Army’s intervention underscores the government’s growing concern over the potential collapse of civilian authority in managing the crisis.
With Nepal at a critical crossroads, the Army’s assumption of control is being closely watched both domestically and internationally. The coming days are expected to determine whether dialogue with youth leaders will pave the way for political stability, or whether the country risks deeper unrest under military oversight.
