The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged authorities to exercise restraint in handling protests after at least 14 people lost their lives during the protest organised by Gen Z groups against corruption and social media ban.

In Kathmandu, protesters marched from Maitighar to New Baneshwar, attempting to enter the Parliament building. Police used batons, water cannons, tear gas, and bullets in response.

The NHRC confirmed that more than a dozen people were killed and dozens were injured.

The NHRC said Nepal’s Constitution and international human rights law guarantee the right to peaceful dissent, and called the escalation into vandalism and the use of excessive force by security personnel ‘regrettable.’

The commission directed the government to implement high security measures to prevent further harm, provide relief and compensation to victims’ families, ensure free treatment for the injured, and conduct a fair and thorough investigation to hold perpetrators accountable. Protesters were also urged to maintain peaceful and disciplined demonstrations.