Nepal burns in explosive Gen Z protest as social media ban row topples Oli regime

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned as violent protests over the government’s social media ban intensified. In his resignation letter, Oli said he was stepping down "to facilitate a solution to the problem and to help resolve it politically."

The Nepal Army said it would take control of the situation from 10 pm, warning protesters against causing damage, looting or arson amid escalating unrest. In a statement, the army said some groups were exploiting the crisis and stressed that if such activities continued, all security agencies, including the army, would take "decisive measures" to restore order.

Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel urged calm, calling on protesters to suspend their agitation and enter talks.

"Easing the uncomfortable situation, protecting national heritage, public and private property, common citizens, diplomatic missions, and ensuring a sense of security is our common duty. To take the country out of this odd situation peacefully, I request the protesting groups to cancel their protest plans and hold talks,” Sigdel said in a statement.

Former Nepal Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal’s wife, Rabi Laxmi Chitrakar, died after sustaining critical burn injuries when their home in Dallu was set on fire. According to Nepali outlet Khabar Hub, Chitrakar was rushed to the Kirtipur Burn Hospital but did not survive.

The death toll in Nepal’s protests rose to 22 on Tuesday, with more than 300 people injured as demonstrations entered their second day despite the government lifting the social media ban.

KP Sharma Oli's residence was torched, and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel was chased through Kathmandu’s streets. Protesters also set fire to parliament building, clashed with police, and attacked the homes of senior leaders, including former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.