The Maldivian Foreign Ministry has not shared any information about the number or condition of Maldivians in Nepal despite ongoing riots and arson of buildings during the hardcore anti-government protests.
At least 19 people have been killed in protests against government corruption in Nepal to Monday. Despite curfews, protests continue on Tuesday as well, with several government buildings and the residences of the country’s leaders set on fire.
Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, and President Ram Chandra Poudel have resigned following the escalating protests.
Nepal has the largest number of Maldivian medical students studying abroad.
Sun has been calling and texting the Foreign Ministry since Tuesday afternoon to get information on the situation of the Maldivians in Nepal. Countries such as India have already issued alerts for the safety and security of their citizens.
Through efforts, Sun has been able to ascertain that two Maldivian students who were leaving Nepal on Tuesday were stranded at Kathmandu airport.
A demonstrator holds a police shield next to burning items outside Nepali Congress party office, in Kathmandu. (Photo/Reuters)
According to some foreign reports, the airport has been closed since 14:00, Tuesday. Videos circulating on social media showed people trapped at the airport and smoke near the airport.
Sun also discovered that the two stranded Maldivian students had managed to contact the Maldivian Embassy in Delhi. The two students and the other Maldivians in Nepal are faring well.
Protests erupted in Nepal following the government's ban on 26 social media platforms, aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation and hate speech. Among the most popular apps targeted are Instagram, YouTube, X, and Facebook, which are widely used by young people.
Initially sparked by opposition to the social media restrictions, the protests have since escalated as youth activists demand the resignation and prosecution of the current government. They cite widespread dissatisfaction with the corruption that has plagued successive administrations in recent years.