Death Toll Rises to 72 Amidst Nepal's Anti-Corruption Protests

Escalating Violence in Nepal

The death toll from the violent anti-corruption demonstrations in Nepal has reached 72, as recovery teams continue to find bodies in government buildings, homes, and other sites that were set ablaze during the protests, according to the Health Ministry.

Last week, the nation was thrown into turmoil following protests against the government's decision to ban 26 social media platforms. Although the government lifted the ban on Monday night, the protests quickly transformed into a wider movement against perceived corruption and poor governance.

In an attempt to control the situation, security forces deployed tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds, while protesters retaliated by setting fire to state buildings, including the Supreme Court, parliament, police stations, and private businesses.

Health Ministry spokesperson Prakash Budathoki reported that many victims were discovered in shopping centers and residential areas that had been attacked.

As of Sunday, the ministry confirmed that over 2,113 individuals sustained injuries during the unrest.

Nepal's interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki announced a compensation of 10 lakh Nepali rupees for the families of the deceased, as reported by local media.

Karki, who previously served as Chief Justice, was appointed as interim prime minister on September 12 after KP Sharma Oli resigned amid escalating protests.

Government's Response to the Unrest ‘Those involved in violence won’t be spared’

In her initial public address since taking office, Karki condemned the violence and expressed her shame over the destruction caused during the protests. She suggested that the arson might have been premeditated.

“If they were Nepalis who destroyed these essential structures, how can they be called Nepalis?” she questioned.

Karki indicated her belief in a conspiracy behind the violence, stating, “All acts will be investigated, and nobody involved will be spared.”

She also committed to addressing the demands of the protesters, primarily driven by the younger generation.

“Gen Z,” referring to those born from the late 1990s to 2010, is advocating for an end to corruption, improved governance, and economic equality.

“We must align our actions with the aspirations of the Gen Z generation,” she emphasized.