Curfew Imposed in Nepalese Town After Clashes

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A curfew was enforced Thursday in Simara, a town in Nepal’s Bara district south of Kathmandu, following clashes between young activists and supporters of the former ruling party overthrown during a deadly uprising in September.

The measure, which marks the second day of restrictions, came after young protesters took to the streets Wednesday during an event held by the Communist Party of Nepal - Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), led by ousted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Scuffles reportedly broke out near the town’s airport after party cadres allegedly attacked the demonstrators.

Authorities have arrested two individuals in connection with the clashes, and police reported no serious injuries. Young protesters returned to the streets Thursday demanding action against those responsible.

The demonstrators are part of a loose "Gen Z" movement that emerged from the September protests, originally sparked by a brief government ban on social media but fueled by deeper frustrations over economic stagnation and entrenched corruption. At least 76 people were killed during the demonstrations on September 8 and 9, and parliament, courts, and government offices were set on fire.

Following the unrest, four-time Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was removed from office and replaced by interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, a former chief justice. Karki has urged all political parties to avoid provocations and respect the democratic process ahead of elections scheduled for March 5, 2026.

"I have directed the Home Administration and security agencies to work with utmost restraint and preparation to maintain peace and order," Karki said in a statement. She also emphasized the need for a safe and fair environment for elections and met with representatives from over 110 parties, expressing her vision for a new generation to lead the country.