Videos show Nepal politicians escaping protests by hanging on to army helicopters

Viral videos on social media have shown Nepali politicians and government officials escaping violent protests by clinging to ropes attached to army helicopters. 

The helicopters were deployed to rescue them as crowds attempted to chase and attack officials.

The footage, widely circulated on X, highlighted how the Nepali Army conducted emergency airlifts to evacuate officials amid escalating unrest. Protesters could be seen rushing toward the helicopters as they hovered over chaotic scenes in Kathmandu.

Social media users reacted strongly to the videos. One account wrote, “Ways to save life…” while another described the airlifts as proof of corrupt officials fleeing in desperation.

As of Wednesday, at least 19 people had been killed and more than 500 injured in the clashes around the Federal Parliament and other parts of Kathmandu. The violence erupted after the government attempted to ban 26 social media platforms—including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and X—over non-compliance with a registration deadline. Although the ban was later revoked, protests intensified, fueled by anger over alleged corruption.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday, saying he was stepping down to allow for “a political solution and resolution of the problems.”

Protesters continued targeting government officials and politicians, setting fire to homes and government buildings. The Nepali Army has since taken control of security operations, with helicopters carrying out rescue missions.

After a 24-hour shutdown, Kathmandu airport reopened as authorities worked to restore order.

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