Lagatar24 Desk
Kathmandu: Nepal’s interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki has declared those killed during the recent Gen Z protests as martyrs and announced financial assistance of Rs 1 million (Rs 10 lakh) for each victim’s family, according to local media reports. Karki, a former Chief Justice, assumed office on Sunday and began her tenure by paying tribute at the Martyrs’ Memorial in Lainchaur before moving to Singha Durbar.
Relief and Support for Victims
Chief Secretary Eknarayan Aryal confirmed that the government will provide immediate relief to the families of the deceased, as well as free medical treatment for 134 injured protesters and 57 police personnel. Ministries have been instructed to submit detailed reports on damages caused during the unrest.
Protests and Political Repercussions
The demonstrations, which escalated into violent clashes, claimed 72 lives, including 59 protesters, 10 inmates, and three police officers. Acting on Karki’s recommendation, President Ramchandra Paudel dissolved the lower house of parliament, fulfilling one of the protesters’ core demands for reform. While Paudel defended the move as necessary to protect the Constitution and democracy, eight political parties criticised it as unconstitutional.