2 killed, curfew imposed as Gen Z protest turns violent in Itahari

KATHMANDU: Two young protesters, aged approximately 25 and 30, were killed when police opened fire as demonstrations against the social media ban escalated into violence in Itahari, Sunsari.

Both were critically injured and rushed to BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Dharan, where doctors pronounced them dead upon arrival. Another protester is receiving treatment at the same hospital.

An Assistant Sub-Inspector of the Armed Police Force was also injured, sustaining a facial wound; authorities confirmed his condition is stable.

The unrest erupted after protesters set fire and caused extensive damage inside the Itahari Sub-Metropolitan City office, targeting the Mayor’s office, the revenue section, and the store section.

Police initially tried to disperse the crowd using tear gas and warning shots, but the demonstrators remained aggressive, prompting the use of live ammunition. Several protesters have been detained.

The escalating protests and damage prompted the Sunsari District Administration Office to impose an indefinite curfew in the Itahari area.

Residents have been urged to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

Local authorities reported that fire services were deployed but faced difficulties controlling the blaze due to the ongoing protests, with preliminary estimates indicating significant damage to the municipal office and surrounding buildings.

Authorities cited the protests against the social media ban and ongoing government criticism as the primary causes of the unrest, which continues to pose a security challenge in the area.