Nepal has declared September 17 as a national day of mourning to honour those who lost their lives during last week’s violent anti-government protests led by the Gen Z movement. The demonstrations, which began on September 7 in response to a controversial ban on social media, quickly escalated into a nationwide uprising against corruption and political apathy. The unrest left at least 59 protesters, 10 prisoners, and three policemen dead, ultimately forcing the resignation of former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and paving the way for Sushila Karki to take charge as caretaker prime minister.
On the day of mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across the country, while government offices will remain closed, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal confirmed. The government has also announced a compensation package for bereaved families, pledging to provide NRs 1 million as ex gratia support and an additional NRs 500,000 to cover other expenses. The compensation will be distributed through District Administration Offices to ensure timely assistance to affected families.
Prime Minister Karki, in her first remarks after taking office, declared that those killed in the September 8–9 clashes would be officially recognised as martyrs. She also underscored the need for accountability, announcing that a high-level judicial inquiry commission will be formed to investigate the events surrounding the protests and the government’s handling of them.
In addition to financial support, the government has committed to building a Gen Z Awareness Park in memory of those who died, symbolising the movement’s lasting impact on Nepal’s political landscape. The protests, which began as an outcry against restrictions on digital freedom, quickly resonated with broader public anger over entrenched corruption, inequality, and the failure of political leaders to address youth aspirations.
The tipping point came on September 8 when police action resulted in the deaths of at least 19 protesters, triggering widespread outrage and demands for Prime Minister Oli’s resignation. His departure the following day signalled a major shift in Nepal’s political balance, while also underscoring the growing influence of younger generations in shaping the nation’s future. The day of mourning is intended not only as a tribute to those killed but also as a reminder of the challenges facing the new leadership in restoring trust and stability.
