The second day of violent demonstrations in Nepal has pushed the country to the edge of a complete breakdown, with both the government and the system appearing paralyzed. Massive protests in Kathmandu saw angry crowds pelting stones at security forces, chasing them through the streets, and even beating them.

The unrest, driven by frustration over unemployment, corruption, and a worsening economic crisis, has escalated into one of the most intense uprisings in recent years. Under pressure, the KP Sharma Oli-led government on Monday lifted the ban on social media apps, but that move did little to calm the outrage.

Calls for Resignation and Fresh Elections

The protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of Prime Minister Oli, his coalition government, and all sitting MPs, calling instead for an interim government and fresh elections. At least 21 people were killed and over 400 injured in Monday’s clashes alone. Despite repeated appeals from the government to stop the violence and join talks, the anger on the streets shows no signs of easing.

Leaders’ Homes Set Ablaze

The protests have now taken a dangerous turn. Furious demonstrators vandalized and set fire to multiple residences of senior leaders. Prime Minister Oli’s official residence in Balakot was torched. Protesters also stormed and set ablaze the personal residence of the President. Former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s home was among the targets, along with the houses of several ministers, including:

• Ramesh Lekhak (former Home Minister)

• Dr. Arju Rana Deuba (Foreign Minister)

• Prithvi Subba Gurung (Communications Minister)

• Deepak Khadka (Energy Minister)

All ministers are being shifted to safe locations as mobs continue targeting political figures. A curfew has been imposed in Kathmandu and several other cities.

From Protest to Violence

The movement initially began with calls to end corruption and address youth unemployment. On Monday, thousands gathered outside Nepal’s Parliament demanding the lifting of the social media ban. When some protesters forced their way inside the Parliament premises, chaos erupted. Police responded with water cannons, tear gas, and even live firing, further fueling public anger.

Protesters allege that the children of politicians live luxuriously on wealth amassed through corruption while ordinary citizens are crushed by joblessness and inflation. The growing resentment has now exploded into one of the deadliest political crises Nepal has witnessed in years.