Kathmandu, Sep 10
The historic Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal’s most revered religious sites, has been closed to visitors on Wednesday due to escalating violent protests across the country.
The Nepalese Army has been deployed to ensure security around the temple premises and maintain peace.
The temple closure comes amid nationwide anti-government protests that turned violent on Monday, led primarily by youth opposing recent government decisions.
The unrest escalated after Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday amid growing pressure. Protesters targeted the residences of President Ramchandra Paudel and other top political leaders and vandalised the Parliament building.
According to official sources, at least 22 people died and more than 500 were injured during clashes on Monday between protesters and security forces. The clashes were triggered after the widespread demonstrations by the youth who called a ban on 26 social media platforms an attack on freedom of expression.
Following the violence, the government lifted a controversial ban on 26 social media platforms late Monday. In addition, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and several other ministers resigned amid the crisis.
The Nepalese Army began deploying troops late Tuesday in Kathmandu to control the situation.
India has increased vigilance along the Nepal border and advised its citizens in Nepal to avoid travel and remain indoors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to discuss the deteriorating situation. He expressed deep anguish over the loss of young lives and stressed the importance of peace and stability in Nepal.
“Many young people have lost their lives. The stability, peace, and prosperity of Nepal are of utmost importance to us. I humbly appeal to all my brothers and sisters in Nepal to support peace,†PM Modi said in an X post.
Flights to and from the capital have been suspended, and the Army has stepped in to maintain order.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The youth are right to protest against social media bans. Freedom of expression is fundamental. But violence is never the answer - dialogue should prevail.
PM Modi's statement is appropriate - India should maintain good relations with Nepal while respecting their sovereignty. Hope our Nepali brothers and sisters find peaceful resolution.
So tragic that 22 young lives were lost. Governments everywhere need to understand that banning social media only fuels more anger. Hope the situation stabilizes soon.
As someone who visited Pashupatinath last year, this news breaks my heart. Nepal is such a beautiful country with wonderful people. Hope they resolve their political differences peacefully.
While I appreciate PM Modi's concern, India should be careful not to appear interfering. Our role should be limited to offering support when requested and ensuring border security.
The government lifting the ban shows that people's voices matter. Hope this leads to meaningful reforms and better governance in Nepal. Peaceful protests can bring change! ✊
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