Are Kannadigas Stranded in Nepal Safe?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 39 Kannadigas stranded in Nepal are confirmed safe.
- State officials are in contact with the Ministry of External Affairs.
- Protests in Nepal have escalated, prompting government action.
- The Nepali Army has declared a nationwide curfew.
- Essential services are still permitted to operate during restrictions.
Bengaluru, Sep 10 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Wednesday that all 39 Kannadigas currently stranded in Nepal are safe.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), "The Kannadigas stranded in Nepal are safe. The Chief Secretaries of the state government, along with the Resident Commissioner of Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi, are actively communicating with them through various teams."
Officials from the state government have engaged in discussions with representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs. Following the Chief Minister's directives, measures are being implemented to ensure the safe return of the stranded Kannadigas, as stated in the announcement.
As a result of significant and rapid protests led by students and youth in Nepal, a tense situation has arisen throughout the nation. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has instructed Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh to facilitate the safe return of the 39 Kannadigas stranded at Kathmandu airport.
The Chief Secretary has coordinated with relevant officials and undertaken necessary actions, as confirmed by the CMO.
The student-led Gen Z protests in Nepal started in reaction to a government ban on social media but have since escalated into a broader movement. The Nepali Army has taken charge of maintaining law and order, declaring a nationwide curfew starting Wednesday and lasting until Thursday morning.
Amid the chaos of Wednesday's protests, which saw the vandalism and arson of several government and private properties, the Nepal Army announced its commitment to restoring peace in the country.
In light of the need to preserve law and order, security officials have stated that the curfew imposed on Wednesday will remain in effect until 6 a.m. the following day, with further extensions to be considered based on developments.
The Army reported that various anarchist individuals and groups have infiltrated the protests, engaging in acts of vandalism, arson, and targeted attacks under the guise of the movement, raising concerns about potential future incidents.
Army personnel have been deployed to the streets to announce the enforcement of the curfew.
As per the Army's statement, essential service vehicles such as ambulances, hearses, fire trucks, healthcare transportation, and sanitation vehicles will be allowed to operate during the restrictions. Authorities are urging coordination with local security forces for smooth operation.
The Army has also cautioned that any acts of vandalism, looting, arson, or violence disguised as protests will be regarded as criminal offenses, with stringent actions taken by security forces.