KATHMANDU: Authorities have extended a curfew in Kathmandu as a youth-led protest against a government social media ban and corruption turned violent, leaving at least 17 people dead and 256 injured, according to the Ministry of Health and Population.

The protest, which began peacefully at Maitighar, escalated into a direct confrontation at the Parliament building.

Demonstrators advanced through a prohibited zone in Naya Baneshwar, where they clashed with police throughout the day.

Protesters threw stones, set a fire at Gate Number 2, and breached a wall on the building’s southwest side. In response, police fired bullets to control the crowd.

Protesters entering Parliament complex

The Kathmandu District Administration Office’s new order expands the curfew beyond the Baneshwar-Tinkune area to include key government and residential zones, such as the Presidential Office at Shital Niwas, the Vice-Presidential Office, the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, and the entire Singha Durbar area.

The curfew will remain in effect from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Kathmandu.

The unrest has spread nationwide, with protests continuing in cities including Pokhara, Chitwan, Hetauda, Butwal, Dang, Bharatpur, Nepalgunj, and Damak. Public figures, including Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah, have voiced support for the youth-led movement.

Clashes erupt on Parliament Grounds between protesters and security personnel