The interim government led by Sushila Karki has announced financial assistance of Rs15 lakh for each family of those killed during the ‘Gen-Z’ protests on 8 and 9 September in Nepal. The victims will be declared martyrs and accorded state honours at their funerals.
According to The Khabar Hub English, the decision came at a cabinet meeting on Monday.
Home and Law Minister Om Prakash Aryal said the government had initially decided to provide Rs10 lakh to each family but later raised the amount by an additional Rs5 lakh.
“The government will also ensure transportation, including helicopters, to send the bodies to respective districts and municipalities,” he added.
Despite Sushila Karki assuming office as the country’s first female prime minister, the protests have continued to rage nationwide. Demonstrators argue that the interim Karki government is merely an extension of the old system, failing to address corruption and inequality.
On 8 September, the government imposed a ban on 26 social media and messaging platforms, sparking widespread anger among Nepalese youth.
Since then, protests and violent clashes escalated across the country, with demonstrators demanding stronger action against corruption.
Following her swearing-in, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki urged citizens to maintain peace, but protesters remain determined to press ahead with their demands.
They have now called for the 72 deceased to be officially recognised as martyrs.
Karki has pledged that her government will remain dedicated to public welfare and work towards establishing political stability.
Analysts, however, warn that unless swift measures are taken to quell public anger, the situation could deteriorate further, pushing Nepal into prolonged uncertainty.
