Kathmandu Riots: A Timeline of Civil Unrest and Violence
A wave of violent demonstrations erupted in Kathmandu and surrounding areas, triggered by television broadcasts showing images of deceased individuals. What began as small gatherings quickly escalated into widespread rioting, targeting religious sites, media houses, and international businesses.
The Outbreak of Violence
The unrest began at 6:00 pm when approximately 20 individuals gathered at Maitidevi, Kathmandu. The initial targets were signs belonging to labour recruitment agencies. The violence soon spread to Ghanta Ghar, where protesters began throwing rocks at a mosque, with the crowd growing to over 150 people.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Escalation on September 1
By September 1, the unrest expanded across various regions, including Kathmandu and Lalitpur. At 7:30 am, a group of about 100 people gathered near Ghanta Ghar, shouting cries against Islamic terrorists and attacking a mosque with rocks. Some protesters climbed onto the roof before police forces intervened to regain control.
Targets of Vandalism
The rioters targeted several media organizations, including Kantipur Publications, Kantipur Television, Space Time Network, and Channel Nepal. Employees at these outlets faced harassment and rock attacks, and their vehicles were set on fire. Religious desecration also occurred, as rioters attempted to burn the Jame Masjid in Kathmandu—an act stopped by police—and burned hundreds of copies of the Koran, the Islamic holy book.
The violence extended to international corporate entities. Offices of airlines from Islamic nations, specifically Qatar Airways, Saudia, Kuwait Airways, and Pakistan International Airlines, were vandalized.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Government Response and Casualties
As the situation deteriorated, the government announced a curfew starting at 2:00 pm for the Ring Road, Butwal, and Birtamod. However, clashes continued before the curfew took effect. At 1:00 pm, protesters clashed with security guards near the Egyptian Embassy in Pulchok; security forces opened fire, resulting in one death and three injuries.
Further violence occurred near Ratna Park at 1:30 pm, where three people were injured, one of whom later died in the hospital. It is estimated that more than 20,000 rioters participated in the unrest on September 1, with significant protests also reported in Birtamod and Butwal.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Restoration of Order
The deployment of the curfew at 2:00 pm successfully cooled the riots. By September 2, the Home Ministry reported that the situation was under control. The curfew was eased on September 4, allowing citizens to purchase food and essential goods, and was officially lifted on Monday, September 6.
Key Facts
- Peak Participation: Estimated 20,000 rioters on September 1.
- Primary Locations: Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Butwal, and Birtamod.
- Casualties: At least two deaths and multiple injuries resulting from clashes and security force gunfire.
- Key Targets: Mosques, the Koran, four media houses, and four international airlines.
- Curfew Duration: Imposed September 1, eased September 4, and ended September 6.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Trigger | Television broadcasts of dead bodies |
| Media Outlets Attacked | Kantipur Publications, Kantipur TV, Space Time Network, Channel Nepal |
| Airlines Vandalized | Qatar Airways, Saudia, Kuwait Airways, Pakistan International Airlines |
| Security Measures | Curfew in Ring Road, Butwal, and Birtamod |
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the initial demonstrations?
The riots were sparked by television channels broadcasting images of dead bodies, leading to initial protests at Maitidevi.
Which media organizations were targeted during the unrest?
Rioters attacked Kantipur Publications, Kantipur Television, Space Time Network, and Channel Nepal, harassing staff and burning vehicles.
How many people were involved in the riots on September 1?
It is estimated that more than 20,000 people participated in the riots on that day.
What was the outcome of the clashes near the Egyptian Embassy?
Clashes between protesters and security guards resulted in one person being killed and three others injured after security forces opened fire.
When did the government officially end the curfew?
While the curfew was eased on September 4, it was officially ended on Monday, September 6.