Nepal Unrest: 51 Dead, Indian Woman Among Victims; Sushila Karki Likely Interim PM

An uneasy calm prevailed in Nepal on Friday after days of violent anti-corruption protests led by youth that left at least 51 people dead and hundreds injured. Among the deceased were three police personnel and an Indian woman from Ghaziabad, according to police officials.

The unrest, which began as demonstrations against a social media ban, quickly escalated into a nationwide anti-corruption movement. Public anger intensified, leading to widespread violence. Protesters ransacked and set ablaze the houses of several ministers, while even the Parliament building was gutted in the clashes.

The turmoil has created a political vacuum following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Sources said that former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is being considered for the post of interim Prime Minister, making her potentially the first woman to head a government in Nepal. However, her appointment is reportedly stalled by divisions among protest leaders, with another group pushing for former Nepal Electricity Authority chief Kulman Ghising as their preferred choice.

Friday’s developments are crucial as political leaders and civil society representatives hold a key meeting on the formation of an interim government. Observers say the decision will determine whether the Himalayan nation can quickly return to stability after one of the deadliest waves of unrest in its recent history.