Kathmandu was rocked by fresh violence on Tuesday as the Gen Z protest against the Nepal government entered its second day, with agitators torching the private residences of President Ram Chandra Poudel, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and several senior leaders. Demonstrators shouted slogans such as “KP Chor, Desh Chhod” (KP thief, leave the country) and “Take action against corrupt leaders” while vandalising properties across the capital.

Protesters set fire to Oli’s private home in Balkot, Bhaktapur, though the prime minister was at his official residence in Baluwatar at the time. The residence of President Poudel was also targeted, along with the home of former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who had resigned on Monday after the death of 19 protesters in police firing. More than 300 people have been injured so far in violent clashes.

The residences of former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ in Lalitpur and Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung in Sunakothi also came under attack. Demonstrators blocked roads with burning tyres and pelted stones at government officials’ homes.

The Gen Z movement, largely youth-driven, had originally mobilized against the government’s decision to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, and X.

Protesters allege the ban was an attempt to suppress freedom of speech, particularly after they began sharing online content exposing the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children, which they claim are funded by corruption. Following intense public pressure, the government has since lifted the ban.

Amid the spiraling crisis, Oli has called an all-party meeting to discuss the situation, appealing for calm and dialogue. However, reports suggest that Oli may leave for Dubai, with Himalayan Airlines kept on standby, allegedly for medical treatment.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also issued a statement expressing condolences for the loss of young lives and advised Indian nationals in Nepal to remain cautious and follow official advisories. The MEA emphasized the importance of restraint and peaceful dialogue, noting that authorities have imposed curfews in Kathmandu and several other cities.

With the protests spreading across Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and beyond, the youth-led anti-corruption movement has emerged as the most serious political crisis faced by Oli’s government in recent years.