Nepal PM Declares ‘Zero State’: No Buildings or Documents Left Amid Gen-Z Protests

The devastating fire at Nepal’s Singha Durbar on September 9 has completely destroyed the country’s government infrastructure.

The situation is so dire that Nepal’s new interim PM Sushila Karki said upon taking oath, “We are at zero state.” She has a cabinet, but ministries no longer have buildings or essential documents left.

The Singha Durbar complex, once a grand palace hosting over 20 ministries, is now reduced to rubble. The flames destroyed Parliament, the anti-corruption court, and several critical government offices.

Government documents, birth certificates, company registrations, and original copies of international treaties turned to ashes. Over 60,000 Supreme Court files were lost entirely.

Documents thrown out of Singha Durbar during Gen-Z movement.

Over 300 buildings, including Parliament, the President’s Office, Supreme Court, anti-corruption court, and local government offices were consumed by fire. PM Karki stated, “All institutions and documents governing the country are destroyed. We’re at zero state. But we will rebuild.”

Citizens struggle with lost documents

Rajendra Shrestha of Kathmandu identified his burnt motorbike, saying, “This is mine, but completely ruined.” Another citizen lamented losing his birth certificate and land registry, leaving no proof of identity.

Employees moving salvaged files from PMO in Kathmandu’s Singha Durbar complex.

Police operating from tents

All 112 police stations in Kathmandu Valley were destroyed. Citizens face extreme hardship accessing birth certificates, passports, pensions, and banking services. Police work from temporary tents, with no government vehicles available after the fires.

Amid economic and political instability, over 2,000 Nepalis are migrating abroad daily.

Over 60,000 Supreme Court files turned to ashes in the fire.

Pile of vehicles destroyed in Nepal fires.

Ex-PM Oli reaches Bhaktapur residence after 9 days

Ousted PM KP Sharma Oli has moved to a private residence in Bhaktapur after 9 days under military protection. Violence during protests forced his resignation on September 9, after which the army airlifted him to safety.

PM Karki speaks with PM Modi

Nepal’s new PM Karki held her first foreign leader call with Indian PM Modi on Thursday. Both reaffirmed commitments to strengthen bilateral ties. Modi tweeted:

“Had a warm conversation with Nepal’s interim PM Sushila Karki. Conveyed deep condolences for recent tragic events causing loss of lives. Assured India’s full support in restoring peace and stability. Also extended advance wishes for Nepal’s National Day.”