Trending videos from Nepal have shown dramatic scenes of politicians and government officials escaping violent protests by clinging to ropes from army helicopters.
The footage, widely circulated on X, captured the Nepali Army conducting emergency airlifts as crowds surged toward officials in Kathmandu. Protesters attempted to chase and attack the politicians, forcing the military to intervene.
The unrest, largely driven by GenZ demonstrators, erupted over deep-seated corruption allegations and government mismanagement. At least 19 people have been killed and more than 500 injured in clashes around the Federal Parliament and other parts of Kathmandu.
Tensions escalated after authorities attempted to ban 26 social media platforms—including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and X—for failing to meet registration requirements. Although the ban was quickly revoked, outrage intensified, feeding the anti-government protests.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation, saying he was stepping down to pave the way for “a political solution and resolution of the problems.”
Despite his exit, demonstrations continued, with protesters torching homes and government buildings. The Nepali Army has now assumed control of security operations, deploying helicopters for evacuations and restoring order. Kathmandu’s international airport reopened on Wednesday after a 24-hour shutdown.