Nepal’s Supreme Court recently revealed that critical judicial documents were nearly destroyed amid violent student-led protests that engulfed the country. The protests, sparked by a government ban on social media platforms, quickly escalated into widespread unrest targeting government institutions, including the Supreme Court itself. The Chief Justice, Prakashman Singh Raut, expressed deep regret over the damage caused and pledged to resume court operations as quickly as possible to ensure justice continues to be delivered.

The violence involved arson, stone-pelting, vandalism, and looting inside the Supreme Court complex, destroying courtrooms, record rooms, legal files, and administrative offices. These documents are invaluable, containing decades of judicial history pivotal for ongoing and future legal proceedings. The destruction represents a significant setback for Nepal’s judiciary, threatening the continuity of justice and administration in the country.

The protests, widely known as the Gen-Z movement, expanded beyond the social media ban to condemn corruption, economic hardships, and political apathy within the ruling class. Despite the government lifting the social media ban in response, the demonstrations became more intense, culminating in the torching of Parliament, the President’s Office, and the Prime Minister’s residence. At least 51 people, including an Indian national, tragically lost their lives during the unrest. The turmoil led to the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and a leadership change, with former Chief Justice Sushila Karki being sworn in as Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister to lead an interim government.

The attack on Nepal’s judicial institutions has drawn condemnation from legal bodies and experts, underscoring the importance of preserving the rule of law amid political resistance. The judiciary now faces the daunting challenge of rebuilding its infrastructure and restoring trust while continuing to serve the public amid ongoing recovery efforts.