Wed Sep 10 11:56:15 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Nepal is in turmoil following protests ignited by a short-lived social media ban. The protests, led by young people, escalated into broader outrage against government corruption and police brutality. Tragically, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, died after protesters allegedly set fire to her home. Other government officials, including Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, have also been targeted, with Oli resigning amidst the chaos. The situation has prompted travel advisories and flight cancellations, highlighting the severity of the unrest.

**News Article:**

**Nepal in Crisis: Ex-PM’s Wife Dies as Protests Force PM to Resign**

**Kathmandu, Nepal** – Nepal is grappling with widespread unrest as protests initially triggered by a social media ban spiraled into broader condemnation of the government, leading to the death of Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, and the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

According to reports, protestors, identified as members of Gen Z, trapped Ms. Chitrakar in her home in Kathmandu before setting the building ablaze. She was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital but succumbed to her injuries.

The protests, which began in response to the government’s decision to block platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube, quickly evolved into demonstrations against perceived government corruption and police violence. Nineteen protestors were reportedly killed on Monday by the Nepalese police. Demonstrators also set fire to the homes of top officials, including that of Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, who was reportedly chased and physically assaulted in the streets.

The situation escalated to the point where Prime Minister Oli announced his immediate resignation on Tuesday. The government’s ban on social media has since been lifted, but the protests have continued, fueled by underlying anger over socio-economic inequalities and frustration with the perceived elite “Nepo Kids” who are seen to enjoy unfair advantages.

The unrest has prompted India to advise its citizens to postpone travel to Nepal. Air India, IndiGo, and Nepal Airlines have cancelled flights between Delhi and Kathmandu amid the volatile environment. The airport in Kathmandu was temporarily closed, and army helicopters were used to evacuate government officials.

The situation in Nepal remains tense, and the future political landscape is uncertain as the country grapples with the consequences of the widespread protests.

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