Violent protests in Nepal have created a political crisis. PM KP Sharma Oli has resigned. Ministers and leaders' houses are being attacked. Many ministers have also resigned. Security has been tightened.
Violent protests: Protests that erupted in Nepal against corruption and social media restrictions have now escalated into a major political crisis. Amidst violence, arson, and police firing across the country, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has resigned from his post. Following his resignation, the reins of power have been temporarily handed over to the Deputy Prime Minister. Sources claim that Oli might flee the country if the situation deteriorates further.
Protests turn violent
The protests, which began on Monday, suddenly turned violent. Police and security forces opened fire on the protesters. According to official figures, 21 people have been killed and over 300 injured so far. In several cities, including Kathmandu, youths targeted government buildings and leaders' houses.
Attacks on ministers' and leaders' houses
Protests in Nepal have now directly reached the homes of leaders and ministers. Protesters set fire to the residence of the Home Minister, while the Communication Minister's house was also targeted and set ablaze. The situation became so severe that crowds reached the homes of opposition leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba. According to sources, protesters were also advancing towards the Prime Minister's official residence, after which security arrangements in the capital were further tightened.
Rift in government, resignation of ministers
Following Prime Minister Oli's resignation, the situation of a rift within the Nepal government is deepening. Agriculture Minister Ram Nath Adhikari has resigned from his post. Along with him, Water Supply Minister Pradip Yadav has also announced his resignation. Several ministers affiliated with the Nepali Congress faction are continuously resigning. Earlier, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak had also resigned, taking responsibility for the violent protests.
Demand for interim government and fresh elections
The protesters' main demand is not limited to the Prime Minister's resignation. They are explicitly stating that an interim government should be formed in the country and fresh elections should be held by dissolving the current parliament. Youth allege that the current political system has become completely corrupt and inefficient, hence a new system is needed now.
Temporary command handed to Deputy Prime Minister
After Prime Minister Oli stepped down, the country's reins have temporarily been handed over to the Deputy Prime Minister. However, the real question is whether the Deputy Prime Minister will be able to pacify public anger or if Nepal will get further entangled in a deep political crisis.
India and neighboring countries express concern
India has expressed concern over the current situation in Nepal. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that India is closely monitoring the situation and expresses condolences to those killed in the violence. The ministry has appealed to the Nepal government and the protesters to exercise restraint and resolve the issue through dialogue.
Besides India, China and other neighboring countries are also keeping a close watch on the situation in Nepal. The instability in Nepal could affect the sovereignty and stability of the entire region.
Speculation about Oli fleeing the country
Several media reports claim that Oli might flee the country. Security agencies have prepared a plan for his safe evacuation. Emergency security arrangements have been made at Tribhuvan International Airport. The army and security forces are continuously monitoring the situation in the capital. However, there has been no official confirmation of Oli leaving the country.
