Nepali Army imposes nationwide curfew amid escalating unrest

KATHMANDU — The Nepali Army has declared a nationwide curfew to address the rapidly escalating unrest across the country, warning that the situation has reached a level requiring extraordinary measures to safeguard national security, public safety, and the rule of law.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Army confirmed that the curfew would remain in force until 5 PM today and would be extended overnight, continuing until 6 AM tomorrow. Officials said the curfew order could be prolonged further if disturbances persist.

The decision comes amid violent protests spreading in multiple districts, where groups accused of infiltrating peaceful demonstrations have engaged in vandalism, arson, looting, and violent attacks against both public and private property. The Army said it is determined to prevent further damage, maintain order, and protect civilians from harm.

Army Warns Against Violence in the Name of Protest

According to the Army’s official communication, anarchic groups and unidentified individuals have exploited ongoing movements, leading to widespread destruction. The statement warned of “targeted violent attacks, including attempted sexual assaults and crimes against individuals,” describing them as imminent threats to civilian safety.

The Army has urged all citizens to cooperate with security agencies. “Any protest, vandalism, looting, arson, or attack on persons and property in the name of political agitation will be considered a punishable crime,” the statement emphasized, cautioning that security personnel will take strict action against anyone defying curfew orders.

Essential Services to Continue

Despite the sweeping restrictions, the Army confirmed that vehicles providing essential services will be allowed to operate. These include ambulances, fire brigades, hearses, security and health workers’ vehicles.

The Army advised civilians to coordinate with nearby security officers for assistance if needed, assuring that basic needs and emergency services would not be disrupted.

Call for Public Cooperation and Vigilance

The Nepal Army has appealed to all citizens—including retired soldiers, civil servants, journalists, and community leaders—to avoid spreading rumors and misinformation. The institution stressed that only official information should be trusted during this sensitive period.

The Army also reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to maintaining national unity, social harmony, and the continuity of daily life despite the challenges posed by current unrest.

Curfews have been imposed multiple times in Nepal’s modern history, especially during periods of political upheaval. In the 1990 People’s Movement, the monarchy used curfews to control demonstrations calling for democracy. Similarly, in 2006, during the second people’s movement that ultimately ended King Gyanendra’s direct rule, nationwide curfews were enforced but often defied by protesters.

More recently, during the Madhes Movement (2015–2016), curfews were imposed in southern districts to contain protests against the new constitution. Each instance has carried significant political, social, and economic implications, sometimes further escalating tensions rather than resolving them.

The latest curfew, imposed by the Army rather than solely by the police administration, underscores the seriousness of the current unrest and the government’s reliance on the military to stabilize the situation.

Economic Impact of Curfew and Unrest

Business leaders and economists warn that prolonged curfews could inflict severe economic damage. With Nepal’s economy already struggling due to slow growth, high unemployment, declining remittance inflows, and sluggish foreign direct investment (FDI), instability may deter both domestic and international investors.

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has repeatedly highlighted that political instability is the single largest barrier to economic growth in Nepal. Tourism, one of Nepal’s most vital industries, is also highly vulnerable to curfews and violent protests. With Nepal promoting Visit Nepal campaigns to attract international tourists, frequent unrest and restrictions raise global concerns about safety and travel security.

Retail businesses, daily wage workers, and small traders also face immediate hardship during curfews. Many rely on daily earnings to support families, and prolonged shutdowns risk exacerbating poverty and unemployment.

Nepal’s curfew falls within this broader pattern of governments resorting to extraordinary restrictions during crises. The challenge lies in balancing security needs with democratic freedoms and economic stability.

Security experts note that the Army’s involvement in internal law enforcement reflects a critical stage of unrest. “When the Nepal Army issues curfew orders directly, it signals that civilian law enforcement has either been overwhelmed or that the government wants to project strong control,” said one retired security official.

Analysts caution, however, that military-led curfews must be carefully managed to avoid excessive force. International human rights organizations often scrutinize such measures, particularly if abuses or civilian casualties occur during enforcement.

Potential Political Fallout

The curfew may also influence Nepal’s volatile political landscape. Opposition parties have often accused the ruling government of overusing security forces to silence dissent. If the current unrest is linked to political grievances, the heavy-handed response could escalate confrontations between protesters and the state.

Observers suggest that without political dialogue, curfews and crackdowns may only offer temporary calm while fueling deeper resentment.

In its concluding remarks, the Army reiterated that the curfew is a temporary measure aimed at safeguarding lives and property, not at suppressing legitimate voices. The statement urged citizens to uphold unity and social harmony during this critical time.

“By maintaining discipline and respecting curfew regulations, we can collectively ensure that Nepal emerges from this unrest stronger, more united, and more secure,” the Army declared.