Nepal Protest: Death toll in Nepal Gen Z protest reaches 30, will Sushila Karki take charge of interim government?

Nepal Protest: The ongoing Gen Z protest in Nepal is not stopping. The death toll in the violent protests that erupted on September 8 has reached 30, while more than 1,000 people have been injured. Government buildings were set on fire in many parts including the capital Kathmandu, prisons were raided and there were clashes with security forces. The army had to impose curfew to control the situation.

Meanwhile, Nepal's former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been chosen by Gen Z agitators as the head of the interim government. 72-year-old Karki has gained the trust of the youth due to her honesty and anti-corruption image. She said that she is ready to take the country out of the transition period.

Youth trusts Sushila Karki

Sushila Karki, Nepal's first female Chief Justice, took charge of the judiciary in 2016. She has also played an important role in the creation of the Constitution in 2006. Karki said, "The youth have expressed confidence in me, I am ready to fulfill this responsibility with full devotion."

Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, who was considered another potential candidate, supported Karki through a Facebook post. He himself refused to take over the interim leadership and appealed to the President to dissolve the Parliament. Shah made it clear that he would take power only through elections.

Army Curfew Tightens Security Kathmandu

The army is deployed on the streets of the capital Kathmandu and curfew has been imposed. Security forces have warned that strict action will be taken against those who damage government property. Protesters attacked the Parliament House Singh Durbar, Supreme Court and the houses of many ministers.

Air services resumed

Flight operations resumed at Kathmandu International Airport after remaining closed for nearly 24 hours. Air India flight was the first to land and Nepal Airlines operated the first outbound flight. The Indian government has directed Air India and IndiGo to operate additional flights between Delhi-Kathmandu to evacuate stranded Indians.

7000 prisoners absconded from jails

During the protests, prisons were attacked and at least five minor prisoners died in clashes with security forces. According to media reports, more than 7,000 prisoners have escaped from jails across the country.

Global reaction and the Nepal royal family

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, China and many other countries have appealed for restraint and stability. Nepal's former King Gyanendra Shah supported the youth's anti-corruption movement but condemned the violence and bloodshed.