After a spell of violence, chaos, and arson, peace is once again finding its way back to Nepal. The curfew and restrictions imposed by the army in Kathmandu have been lifted as of 5 AM this morning. The decision was taken by security forces in light of the formation of the interim government, although the military presence on the streets is anticipated to continue for a few more days.
Taking the reins of the interim government is former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, who was sworn in as Prime Minister yesterday. The atmosphere in the streets of the capital is gradually returning to normal. Local resident Suman Sivakoti shared, 'I hope Sushila Karki will herald a new era for Nepal, ensuring safety and advancing development.'
With Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister, there is hope among the people in Birgunj, Nepal, for a corruption-free government. It is expected that properties of the Prime Minister and all ministers embroiled in corruption allegations will be scrutinized, paving the way for a corruption-free Nepal.
Nepal's tourism industry hit hard by unrest, foreign tourists targeted
The Hotel Industry Suffers a Loss of 25 Billion
The violent outcomes of the recent anti-corruption protests have further deteriorated the situation. According to police, the death toll from these demonstrations has risen to 51, including 21 protesters, 9 detainees, 3 police officers, and 18 others.
The hotel industry in Nepal has borne the brunt of the violence. Reports suggest significant damage from riots, looting, and arson affecting around two dozen hotels, causing losses exceeding 25 billion Nepalese Rupees.
Police Seeking Videos of Vandals
Nepal's police force is reaching out to the public for assistance with any video evidence related to the occurrences of violence, arson, and looting across the nation. Citizens are encouraged to share any relevant footage they may have to facilitate legal actions against the culprits. An official police email has been set up for receiving such videos.
Earlier, Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday. Hundreds of protesters stormed his office, demanding resignations over Monday's deaths during demonstrations. A ban on social media was lifted on Monday night.
Despite Oli's resignation, violence persisted as protestors set fire to buildings, including the parliament, presidential office, prime minister's residence, government offices, political party offices, and the homes of senior leaders.
India expresses support for Nepal's new interim government led by Sushila Karki, calls for increased peace and stability
1,700 People Injured
On Friday afternoon, several deceased were cremated at the Arya Ghat by the Bagmati River in the Pashupatinath temple complex in Kathmandu. Police report approximately 1,700 injuries during the protests, with nearly 1,000 individuals recovering and returning home.
As per officials, activities of Nepal Police in the Kathmandu Valley are gradually resuming. Police stations and posts damaged or set on fire by protestors are returning to operation.
