Kathmandu, Nepal — Grief and anger envelop Nepal following violent anti-corruption protests that resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals. Families gathered outside mortuaries, mourning the loss of young lives, while questioning the responsibility of the government for the tragic events.
Among those left searching for answers is Narendra Shrestha, who lost his 21-year-old son, Sulov. After identifying Sulov’s body at a hospital, Shrestha cried out for accountability, lamenting the senselessness of his son’s loss. “Who will we live for now?” he asked through tears, voicing the heartbreak shared across families mourning in Kathmandu.
The unrest erupted last week, initially ignited by a government ban on major social media platforms, which protesters saw as an infringement on their rights. The demonstrations quickly morphed into widespread dissent against pervasive government corruption, culminating in violent clashes that saw crowds targeting public buildings and politicians’ homes.
Witnesses reported that police escalated tensions by opening fire on demonstrators. Following the chaos, many sought refuge in hospitals, with reports of serious injuries caused by live ammunition. Dr. Santosh Paudel from Bir Hospital recalled treating critically injured patients, noting the alarming presence of both rubber bullets and actual firearm injuries among those rushed to receive urgent care.
As the death toll continued to rise, international human rights advocates expressed concern over the government’s handling of the protests. They called for a thorough investigation into the use of force by law enforcement. However, Nepal’s police assured the public that they would look into the violent outbreaks, leaving many to wonder if justice would be served.
Families, like that of 22-year-old Rashik Khatiwada, are left grappling with loss and despair. Rashik’s uncle, Rasik KC, demanded accountability, claiming, “We want justice.” Rashik was shot twice in the chest, and his death was a gut-wrenching revelation for his family, compounded by the widespread injustice perceived throughout the protests.
As the dust began to settle, new Prime Minister Sushila Karki faces the monumental task of restoring order to a nation in turmoil. The 73-year-old former chief justice must navigate the complex landscape of dissatisfaction among citizens eager for change. She has announced fresh elections for March 2026, but her immediate challenge will be addressing the incidents of violence during the protests and reassuring the public of their safety.
Residents of Kathmandu remain skeptical, with many demanding accountability for the government’s actions. The profound sadness of the victims’ families looms over the city, as tragic stories of lost potential emerge. Young people with dreams — aspiring judges, language students, and hopeful hotel workers — now represent a generation that bears witness to their government’s failings.
Doctors and hospital staff treated hundreds during the protests, recalling the chaos that unfolded in emergency rooms. The situation they encountered was unprecedented, with medical personnel overwhelmed by the number of injured and deceased. Ranjana Nepal, an information officer at the Civil Service Hospital, expressed disbelief, stating that the scale of the crisis surpassed even significant natural disasters the nation has faced.
Public sentiment is quickly shifting as demands for responsibility intensify. Despite promises of investigations, many wait for tangible actions that prioritize justice for the lives that have been forever altered by violence. As families continue their struggle for answers, the youth of Nepal stands ready to challenge a government they believe has failed them.