New Delhi, September 9: Air India on Tuesday cancelled multiple flights on the Delhi-Kathmandu-Delhi route after violent protests in Nepal intensified for a second day, following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
The airline confirmed that flights A12231/2232, A12219/2220, A1217/218, and A1211/212 will remain suspended for the day, citing safety concerns.
“In view of the current situation prevailing in Kathmandu, these flights have been cancelled. We are closely monitoring the situation, and the safety of our passengers and crew remains the top priority,” an Air India spokesperson said.
Escalating Protests in Kathmandu
The decision comes amid widespread unrest in Nepal after Oli resigned earlier on Tuesday. At least 19 protesters were killed and over 500 injured during two days of violent clashes in Kathmandu and surrounding areas, local media reported.
Authorities imposed curfews in key parts of the capital after protesters:
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Set fire to Prime Minister Oli’s private residence in Balkot
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Vandalised ruling party offices and the Nepali Congress headquarters
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Attacked the homes of senior ministers, including Prithvi Subba Gurung and Bishnu Paudel
Protesters also breached Singha Durbar, Nepal’s central administrative complex, demanding accountability for the deaths and the now-revoked social media ban that initially sparked the unrest.
Airport Security and Curfew Measures
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu was temporarily closed, with Nepali Army troops deployed to secure the premises. Authorities reported incidents of stone-pelting, arson, and gunfire, though police claimed no live ammunition was authorised.
What Triggered the Protests
The demonstrations, led primarily by Gen Z youths, began after the government imposed a ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and X. Although the ban was lifted late Monday night, protesters renewed their demands, citing government corruption and police brutality.
With Prime Minister Oli stepping down and four cabinet ministers resigning, Nepal now faces one of its most serious political crises in recent years.