Army chief urges protesters to hold dialogue to resolve political unrest in country

Nepal is facing one of its biggest political crises in recent years after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday, September 9, following days of violent protests. The demonstrations, mostly led by young Gen Z activists, started over the government’s controversial ban on social media but quickly grew into a larger movement against corruption, poor governance, and lack of accountability.

The situation worsened after violent clashes claimed 19 lives, prompting hundreds of protesters to storm both the official office and private residence of the Prime Minister. Soon after, Oli announced his resignation, while several of his Cabinet colleagues also stepped down, blaming the government for ignoring the people’s anger and grievances.

In a dramatic appeal just hours before quitting, Oli urged the protesters to remain peaceful and seek dialogue to resolve issues. However, his words were drowned in the rising fury on the streets of Kathmandu and other major cities. The protests also reached India-Nepal border areas, adding to regional concern.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security to assess the fast-changing situation in the neighbouring country.

Army chief urges for peace and dialogue

As the protests turned more violent, the Nepali Army was called in to restore order. Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel released a video message late on Tuesday urging demonstrators to stop the violence and resolve matters through talks.

“During the protests, there has been heavy damage. To prevent further loss of lives and property, and to maintain peace, security, and harmony, dialogue is the only way forward. National unity and harmony are our common duty,” the Army chief said.

His appeal came after protesters torched government offices, including the District Administration Office and Election Office in Chitwan district. Fires also spread to the district court, land revenue office, and attorney’s office, destroying important documents. In Bharatpur, municipal and ward offices were attacked, while a massive blaze broke out at a major shopping centre, the Bhatbhateni store.

In Kathmandu, demonstrators set fire to the country’s main administrative headquarters, Singha Durbar, while at the India-Nepal border, protesters burned down a Nepali checkpost. Several agitators were detained as security forces moved in.

The protesters, however, insist that they are fighting for a corruption-free system and better governance. Many young leaders say they want accountability from the political class, whom they accuse of ignoring the real problems of ordinary citizens. They are also demanding direct dialogue with the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s Office).

Travel restrictions and public concerns rise

The unrest has not only shaken Nepal but also affected people across the India-Nepal border. At the Sonauli border in Uttar Pradesh, many Indian nationals cancelled their travel plans to Nepal. Videos showed families turning back, fearful of entering a nation under curfew. In Bahraich’s Rupaidiha town, which usually thrives on trade with Nepali buyers, markets wore a deserted look. Local residents expressed worry, noting that cross-border families linked by marriage and daily commerce were deeply affected.

Nepali students in India have also delayed travel plans. Many said they constantly call their families back home, worried about their safety. “We are deeply concerned for our parents and relatives. The situation is unpredictable,” one student said.

In Maharashtra, the State Emergency Operations Centre issued an advisory asking citizens not to travel to Nepal until the situation stabilises. The government also advised Indians already in Nepal to remain safe indoors and follow the instructions of local authorities and the Indian Embassy.

The Embassy of India in Kathmandu further issued helpline numbers for Indian nationals needing assistance, urging them to avoid unnecessary movement and stay connected with officials.

The Nepal government has imposed strict curfews in Kathmandu and other cities to prevent further violence. Streets that were once filled with protesters now appear deserted, but tension remains high.

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A movement led by young voices

What began as anger over a social media ban has now turned into a larger political awakening among Nepal’s youth. Protesters, particularly from Gen Z, argue that they are no longer willing to tolerate corruption and mismanagement. They have accused the political elite, including both current and former leaders, of failing the country.

In one of the boldest acts, protesters targeted the residence of former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Arzu Deuba, demanding change in leadership and accountability. Protest leaders insist that the movement will continue until the government creates “new rules and governance” that truly reflect the needs of the people.

Observers believe that this youth-led protest marks a significant turning point in Nepal’s political landscape. With the Prime Minister already stepping down and ministers resigning, the pressure is now on the political class to come up with a fresh plan to address corruption and restore public trust.

For now, however, Nepal remains on edge. The Army chief’s call for peace and dialogue may offer a way forward, but whether the young protesters will trust the system and come to the table remains uncertain.