Hundreds of demonstrators forced their way into Nepal’s parliament on Tuesday, torching the main chamber, the prime minister’s office, and several government buildings just hours after Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli stepped down.
The violence erupted in Kathmandu, where anti-corruption protests had been growing since Monday. Anger that began over a ban on social media platforms quickly snowballed into a wider revolt against corruption and political favoritism.
Parliament in Flames
Protesters scaled walls and smashed through barriers to reach parliament, setting the building on fire. Windows were shattered, walls covered with anti-corruption graffiti, and security forces struggled to regain control.
Ekran Khiri, spokesperson for the legislature, confirmed that hundreds of people stormed the compound and ignited the main chamber. At Singha Durbar, the large government complex housing many ministries, demonstrators broke in and set parts of the site ablaze, including the prime minister’s office.
Resignation Fails to Calm Streets
Oli announced his resignation earlier in the day, hoping to ease mounting public pressure. But his departure only fueled anger, as many saw it as a symbolic gesture that did nothing to address systemic corruption.
Airport Closed as Protests Spread
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu halted operations as unrest escalated near the capital. According to flight data, all arrivals and departures were suspended. At least two flights from Thailand were diverted after being unable to land.
From Online Ban to Political Crisis
The protests began with outrage over restrictions on social media but quickly widened into a mass movement demanding transparency and accountability. The fire at parliament marks the most violent escalation in a week of turmoil, leaving the country facing its deepest political crisis in years.