The situation in Nepal is becoming increasingly unstable and tense with each passing day. Just as the ‘Government from the Streets’ movement in Bangladesh had turned violent, a similar scenario has now unfolded in Nepal. In Kathmandu and other parts of the country, protesters have continued with arson, stone-pelting, and attacks on government institutions. Reports of fires at the Prime Minister’s residence, the Chief Minister’s residence, the Presidential Palace, and even the Parliament have created a climate of fear across the nation.

In particular, due to security concerns, the Kathmandu airport has been shut down indefinitely. As a result, several flights from Delhi bound for Kathmandu were forced to turn back mid-air. Air India canceled six flights outright, with a spokesperson stating that “the safety of passengers and crew is paramount.” Specifically, flights AI2231/2232, AI2219/2220, and AI217/218 were canceled. Similarly, an IndiGo flight had to return and land in Delhi before reaching Kathmandu.

The public anger over the government’s ban on social media had already escalated into a mass movement. Under intense pressure, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned from his post. Along with him, the Deputy Prime Minister and 10 other ministers also tendered their resignations. Although the government later lifted the ban on social media, the situation in Kathmandu and other major cities remains dire.

Police and security forces have been deployed extensively across city streets. Nevertheless, protesters continue to gather in large numbers, bringing normal life to a standstill. Transport, schools, and businesses are almost entirely shut down. Furthermore, shortages of essential goods have added to the hardship faced by the people.