Nepal
The Supreme Court of Nepal has extended the suspension of statutes of limitation, deadlines, and hearing dates by an additional 60 days, citing disruptions caused by the Gen Z movement that led to arson, vandalism, and prolonged court closures. This decision aims to address the inconvenience and hardship faced by litigants due to the extraordinary situation created by the protests.
In September 2025, Nepal witnessed widespread protests led by the Gen Z movement, resulting in significant damage to public infrastructure, including court buildings. Courts across the country remained closed from September 9 to November 15, leading to a backlog of cases and procedural delays. The destruction of approximately 933,000 case files further compounded the challenges faced by the judiciary.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, a special full bench comprising all 19 justices of the Supreme Court decided to extend the deadline freeze. This extension allows litigants an additional 60 days, starting from January 15, to comply with procedural requirements. The ruling also applies to high courts, district courts, and tribunals, ensuring a uniform approach across the judicial system.
The court emphasized that the decision was made to alleviate the confusion and hardship experienced by litigants and to uphold the right to a fair hearing. It directed the Office of the Attorney General, the Nepal Bar Association, and the Supreme Court Bar Association to ensure the order's implementation across subordinate courts and to publicize it widely.
This extension reflects the judiciary's commitment to maintaining access to justice despite unprecedented challenges. By acknowledging the disruptions caused by the protests and taking proactive measures, the Supreme Court aims to restore confidence in the legal system and ensure that the rights of litigants are protected during this transitional period.
