Kathmandu, September 10 (HS): Nepal has plunged into widespread unrest following the ban on social media in the capital, prompting the Nepal Army to announce a nationwide curfew starting Thursday. The decision comes after violent demonstrations erupted in Kathmandu, quickly spreading to other parts of the country.

According to The Himalayan Post, the Directorate of Public Relations and Information of the Nepal Army issued a formal statement on Wednesday, confirming that a prohibitory order was imposed today until 5 p.m. Beginning Thursday at 6 a.m., a curfew will be enforced across the country. The army clarified that further decisions on the curfew’s extension will depend on the evolving security situation.

Expressing gratitude to citizens for their cooperation in maintaining order so far, the army conveyed its condolences over the casualties and damage caused during the protests. It condemned incidents of arson, looting, vandalism, trespassing, and targeted violence, stressing that criminal acts under the guise of demonstrations will be treated as punishable offenses.

The army added that during the curfew, the movement of essential and emergency vehicles — including ambulances, fire trucks, hearses, health workers’ vehicles, and security forces’ transport — will be permitted.

Authorities appealed to citizens to coordinate with nearby security personnel if necessary and urged retired soldiers, government employees, journalists, and the general public not to believe misinformation, emphasizing reliance only on official communication channels.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar