Categories: Asia

Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli Resigns After Deadly Crackdown Kills 19

Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli resigns after deadly crackdown kills 19. Protests led by youth continue as nation faces political turmoil and uncertainty.

Published by
Sumit Kumar

Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Monday after facing intense pressure from nationwide protests and one of the deadliest crackdowns in recent years. His resignation comes just a day after security forces opened fire on demonstrators, killing at least 19 people and injuring hundreds.

Deadly Crackdown Fuels Anger

Officials confirmed Oli’s resignation, which followed violent clashes across the country. Police reported 17 deaths in Kathmandu and two more in Sunsari district on Monday. More than 100 police personnel were also injured.

Amnesty International accused security forces of firing live ammunition at protesters, while the United Nations called for a swift and transparent investigation into the deaths.

Youth-Led Protests Continue

The protests are being led largely by young Nepalis. Demonstrators defied curfew orders on Tuesday and returned to the streets. They demanded accountability for corruption, rising unemployment, and a recent ban on social media apps such as Facebook, YouTube, and X.

ALSO READ: Nepal Protest: Protesters Set Fire on PM Oli’s Residence | Watch

Although the ban was lifted, public anger has only grown. Protesters accused security forces of excessive brutality.

“Nearly 20 people were murdered by the state — that shows the scale of police brutality,” said Yujan Rajbhandari, a 23-year-old student who joined the demonstrations.

Generational Outcry Against Corruption

Analysts say the protests highlight deep frustration among young citizens. People aged 15 to 40 make up almost 43 percent of Nepal’s population. Many see the movement as a generational demand for justice and reform.

The Kathmandu Post noted in an editorial, “This isn’t just about social media — it’s about trust, corruption, and a generation that refuses to stay silent.”

Oli’s Failed Attempt at Conciliation

At 73, Oli had promised to personally lead all-party talks to end the unrest. He announced on Tuesday that he wanted a “meaningful conclusion” to the crisis through dialogue.

ALSO READ: Nepal Protests Escalate: Minister’s House Set on Fire in Kathmandu, PM Oli Calls Meeting

However, his decision to step down shows the depth of political turmoil in the country. His departure is expected to trigger intense negotiations among parties as they try to form a new government.

Violence Targets Government and Leaders

During the protests, some demonstrators attacked government buildings and properties belonging to politicians. Others openly accused the security forces of murder. The unrest has shaken public trust in leadership and exposed the government’s fragile grip on power.

Sumit Kumar
Published by Sumit Kumar