Kathmandu — Nationwide demonstrations led by young protesters from Generation Z turned deadly on Monday, leaving at least 18 people dead and more than 250 injured across several districts of Nepal.

The majority of fatalities occurred in the capital, where authorities confirmed 16 deaths after security forces used heavy force to disperse crowds near the Federal Parliament building in Baneshwor. Local reports indicate that clashes intensified after demonstrators attempted to breach security barricades.

In Itahari, two additional deaths were recorded following confrontations between protesters and security personnel. Tensions also spread to Pokhara, Jhapa, and Morang, where street battles and stone-pelting were reported.

The protests, fueled by frustration over government restrictions on social media platforms and broader dissatisfaction with governance, drew thousands of young people into the streets despite a curfew in Kathmandu.

According to the Ministry of Health, hospitals across the capital are struggling to cope with the influx of casualties.

• Civil Hospital: 3 dead, 100 injured; 15 in critical condition referred to Trauma Centre and Bir Hospital.

• Trauma Centre: 8 dead, 49 receiving treatment under emergency disaster protocols.

• Everest Hospital: 3 dead, 34 injured, including 7 critical cases.

• Kathmandu Medical College: 2 dead, 32 injured; 6 requiring surgery.

• Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital: 1 dead, 18 injured.

• Other facilities including Patan Health Sciences, Norvic International, and hospitals in Pokhara and Jhapa are treating dozens more.

Health officials confirmed that emergency disaster plans have been activated in major Kathmandu hospitals as the casualty toll continues to rise.

Despite curfew orders and roadblocks, protesters have remained defiant, vowing to continue demonstrations until their demands for greater freedoms and accountability are addressed.

Note: The figures in this report are based on information available at the time of publication. Numbers may change as more updates become available