Wed Sep 10 17:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Nepal is facing a period of intense turmoil as Gen Z-led protests, initially sparked by social media bans, have escalated into widespread violence. Protesters have targeted government buildings, politicians’ homes, and even attacked former Prime Ministers and their families. While unconfirmed, there are reports of fatalities and serious injuries, including the possible death of former PM Jhala Nath Khanal’s wife. The protests reflect deeper issues of youth unemployment, corruption, and the perceived advantages enjoyed by the children of political elites. The government has lifted the social media ban, but the protests continue, fueled by anger and distrust.

**News Article:**

**Nepal Gripped by Violent Protests: Former Prime Ministers Attacked, Buildings Torched**

**Kathmandu, Nepal** – Nepal is in a state of crisis as protests led by the country’s Gen Z population have erupted into widespread violence. What began as demonstrations against the government’s social media ban has spiraled into a full-blown crisis, with protesters targeting government buildings, political leaders, and even former Prime Ministers.

Reports indicate that former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, were violently attacked by a mob. Videos circulating on social media show the couple injured and being helped to safety. Additionally, a house belonging to former Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal was set ablaze, with unconfirmed reports suggesting his wife, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, sustained fatal injuries.

On Monday, police opened fire on protesters in Kathmandu, resulting in 19 deaths. The unrest continued on Tuesday, with demonstrators setting fire to government buildings and the homes of prominent politicians. The protests, although starting about the social media ban, reflect deeper discontent among young Nepalis, many of whom are frustrated with high youth unemployment rates (around 20% according to the World Bank), political corruption, and the perceived advantages enjoyed by the children of political leaders.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned amidst the turmoil, and President Ram Chandra Poudel has appointed him to lead a caretaker government. Poudel has also appealed for peace and urged protesters to pursue a peaceful resolution.

The social media ban that initially triggered the protests has been lifted, but the unrest continues, fueled by anger over alleged political corruption, inequality, and the deaths that have resulted from the clashes. The Nepali Army and other security agencies have issued a joint appeal for restraint and dialogue, urging the nation to find a path towards resolution amid the escalating crisis.

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