Death toll rises to 19 in Nepal's 'Gen Z' protest

At least 19 protestors were killed in a single day when security forces opened fire on protestors across various districts of Nepal, marking the highest death toll since the 2006 movement to overthrow King Gyanendra, Report informs via The Tribune.

A total of 18 people had died in weeks of protests that ultimately ended the centuries-long monarchy in Nepal, paving the way for the Himalayan nation to become a democratic republic.

As per an update from the Ministry of Health and Population, 19 protestors, including a 12-year-old child, died from police firing in a series of protests organized across the Himalayan nation. The protestors had called for the protests on social media to defy the social media ban and highlight rampant corruption.

According to figures released by the Health Ministry, eight protestors died at the National Trauma Center, three each at Everest Hospital and Civil Hospital, one at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, and two at Kathmandu Medical College. Additionally, two others died in Itahari city of Sunsari District.

During Monday's protest, the police used water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition against demonstrators. They fired from inside the parliament building as protestors swarmed into it and set the entrance on fire.

Demonstrations continue across Kathmandu and other major cities, with protestors rallying against social media restrictions and government corruption.

Following the deadly day of violence, which marked the highest single-day death toll due to police brutality, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged authorities to exercise restraint in handling protests.