As the role of the Nepali Army is being questioned by various quarters particularly regarding the Gen Z protests of September 8-9, the defence force issued an appeal on Friday, stating that its attention had been drawn to the various comments and reactions about it.

On September 9, the second day of the Gen Z protest, many important government buildings, including the country's main administrative complex Singha Durbar that houses several ministries; President’s Office; Parliament; the Supreme Court; the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA); and several private houses and businesses were set afire by angry mobs. However, the army, whose several units are located within walking distance, did not intervene to protect these public and private properties, raising serious questions from several quarters.

Issuing an appeal on Friday, the army clarified that it took initiatives with the aim of restoring law and order as quickly as possible.

During an interaction with journalists on Friday, former prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal also raised questions and asked why the army was unable to protect historical and important buildings like Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, and the CIAA, among others.

In its appeal, the army expressed its gratitude for the suggestions, feedback, and critical opinions received from intellectuals, social workers, journalists, and the general public aimed at helping normalise the difficult situation following the Gen Z movement.

“We would like to inform you that the Nepali Army has taken necessary initiatives . by objectively assessing the potential impact on internal security,” said the army.

Various news and commentaries have been published in the media, and many in the intellectual community have questioned the army’s role, particularly on September 9.

The statement also mentions that the army has taken note of various comments and criticisms in the media.

"In the current sensitive situation, the Nepali Army’s attention has been drawn to various comments and opinions being disseminated through different media outlets and social media platforms, linking the institution and its leadership," said the army.

"We would also like to inform you that the Nepali Army has been regularly making its views and activities public through press releases, press notes, and official social media channels,” the army statement added, asking journalists to contact its Directorate of Public Relations and Information for official comments and reactions.