Kathmandu, Nepal — Grief and anger permeate the streets of Nepal following a week of violent protests that left over 70 people dead, including many young demonstrators. As families mourn their lost loved ones, questions of accountability and grief overshadow the aftermath of fierce unrest that erupted in response to government corruption and a controversial social media ban.
Narendra Shrestha, 45, is among the devastated relatives seeking answers. He stands outside Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital’s mortuary, where he has just identified his son, 21-year-old Sulov, whose life was claimed by gunfire during the protests. “If they can shoot my son, they can shoot anyone,” Shrestha said, his voice trembling with sorrow. “We have nothing left to live for.”
Inside the hospital, families gather, hoping to identify their loved ones whose dreams were abruptly extinguished. One victim had aspirations of becoming a judge, while another was a student working in a local hotel. The protests, ignited by widespread anger towards political corruption, escalated rapidly, culminating in a violent clash between police and demonstrators.
The immediate catalyst for the unrest was a government-imposed ban on social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube, justified by authorities as a measure against misinformation. However, the move further fueled public outrage, leading to severe confrontations with law enforcement. As the situation spiraled out of control, many of the deceased were reportedly shot, while others fell victim to fires and clashes.
Observers note that the casualty figures are likely to rise as authorities continue to uncover the chaos left behind. In response to the escalating situation, Nepal’s police have pledged to investigate the actions taken during the protests, yet it remains unclear who authorized the use of lethal force on demonstrators.
Among those waiting to identify their families is Rasik KC, who seeks his 22-year-old nephew, Rashik Khatiwada, also a victim of the violence. “We demand justice,” KC said, expressing his frustration. Eyewitness accounts from those who survived the protests reveal a landscape marked by both heartache and fury.
Medical professionals at various hospitals have reported overwhelming caseloads amid the turmoil. Dr. Santosh Paudel, who treated numerous injured demonstrators, recounted the shocking severity of injuries they encountered, including both gunshot and rubber bullet wounds. “We’ve never faced a disaster like this,” said Ranjana Nepal, an information officer at the Civil Service Hospital.
The protests turned violent as crowds torched government buildings, including Parliament, even after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli had resigned amid the escalating crisis. New interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki has vowed to investigate the events surrounding the protests, facing the daunting challenge of not only forming a cabinet but also restoring public trust in the government.
With calls for fresh elections scheduled for March 2026, the critical test for Karki will be her ability to ensure accountability for those responsible for the violence, both in the streets and in the halls of power. Meanwhile, victims’ families like that of Abishek Shrestha, who is recovering in the hospital after being shot, express their anger and demand change. “The government cannot treat us this way,” he stated from his bed, reflecting the growing sentiment for reform.
As the country grapples with this tragedy, the narratives from families and survivors intertwine, highlighting a profound longing for justice amidst heartbreak and mourning.