These helicopters were deployed to facilitate emergency airlifts, rescuing officials who were being chased and attacked by crowds during escalating unrest. Footage, particularly shared on X, showcased the Nepali Army’s intervention in chaotic situations within Kathmandu, with protesters visible rushing towards the hovering helicopters.

The social media response to these videos was strong, with commentary ranging from observational remarks about life-saving measures to accusations of corrupt officials fleeing in desperation. The scale of the violence was substantial, resulting in at least 19 reported deaths and over 500 injuries from clashes occurring around the Federal Parliament and other parts of Kathmandu.

The unrest was initially sparked when the government attempted to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and X, citing non-compliance with a registration deadline. Despite the eventual revocation of this ban, protests intensified, exacerbated by public anger over allegations of corruption. In response to the volatile situation, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation on Tuesday, stating that he was stepping down to allow for a “political solution and resolution of the problems.”