Violence in Nepal: Residences of Prominent Political Leaders Destroyed by Arson

Clashes in Nepal: Residences of High-ranking Politicians Inflamed - Political Chaos in Nepal: Residences of Prominent Political Figures Torched

In the heart of Nepal, a nation of approximately 30 million people, political tensions have been escalating for the past week following the government's decision to ban 26 social media networks. The ban, aimed at forcing these networks to register and come under state supervision, has sparked strong criticism and driven thousands onto the streets nationwide.

The opposition group, mainly composed of young protesters, has been denouncing this government action, demanding the lifting of the ban and protesting against widespread corruption and nepotism. Their explicit demand is the removal of social media restrictions and a political solution addressing corruption and lack of transparency.

The protests erupted in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, and have continued for two consecutive days, resulting in clashes between protesters and police. The clashes have resulted in at least 19 deaths and numerous injuries, with the Nepali police using water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition during the confrontations.

Unverified videos show flames at the private home of President Ram Chandra Paudel, and the residences and offices of several ministers and politicians in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal have been set on fire. Police stations were also targeted during the attacks.

Amidst this severe unrest, Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli has resigned to pave the way for a political solution. Oli, who has been in the post of prime minister since last year, having held it multiple times before, stepped down in an effort to quell the tensions.

Several ministers, including the interior minister, have already resigned, and the controversial ban on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram has been lifted. However, the future of Nepal's political landscape remains uncertain as the nation navigates these challenging times.

It is important to note that Nepal's parliamentary democracy is young, having emerged from a civil war that lasted from 1996 to 2006. The centuries-old monarchy in Nepal was abolished in 2008.

As the situation in Nepal continues to unfold, the international community will closely watch the developments and hope for a peaceful resolution to the current unrest.