Business Leaders Vow to Rise Again from Ashes

Following the destruction and arson during the recent Gen Z movement, business owners are now busy clearing debris and rebuilding damaged structures, equipment, and offices, in order to resume operations with renewed determination. Despite heavy losses, they have demonstrated resilience and courage, rallying their management teams and employees to rise again.

Nirvana Chaudhary, Managing Director of Chaudhary Group, expressed sorrow over the attacks on the group through a Facebook post, clarifying that the incidents were not carried out by the youth movement itself. Chaudhary stated, “These past few days have been among the most painful in our company’s history. The movement, which began with a genuine demand for accountability and change, was hijacked and distorted by disruptive elements and external forces. What should have been a peaceful demand for a better Nepal turned into violence, looting, and destruction.”

On September 9, the vandalism, looting, and arson damaged several business complexes, including CG Net’s data center and electronics assembly factory in Satungal, Binod Chaudhary’s residence, the Thapathali motor showroom, Chitwan’s Landmark branch, and the head offices in Bharatpur.

Chaudhary described the scene as “heartbreaking,” highlighting targeted attacks on the chairman, assaults on family homes, and damage to factories, offices, and showrooms. He noted that decades of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication were reduced to ashes within hours. “This was not just an attack on property but an assault on hope, trust, and the idea of contributing meaningfully to the nation,” he wrote.

Despite the adversity, he acknowledged the courage shown by the company’s leadership, management, and staff in protecting assets, promising appropriate recognition and celebration in due course. Chaudhary reaffirmed the group’s commitment to rebuilding, continuing contributions to tax revenue, employment, and social welfare, as it has historically done, being one of Nepal’s largest taxpayers and employers.

Similarly, Bhat-Bhateni Group suffered significant losses in the same misfortunate event, with arson reported at 12 out of its 27 stores nationwide and vandalism at 9 others. The group shared videos of cleanup efforts on social media, stating, “These are painful moments, but hope is not lost. Even though our stores were destroyed, your support makes us feel stronger. Thousands of helping hands are cleaning, wiping tears, and empowering us to rise again. Bhat-Bhateni will stand tall once more. With your support, we will make the future even brighter.”

Shekhar Golchha, Chairman and Managing Director of Golchha Group, also took to Facebook, wishing for the fulfillment of the new generation’s vision of a transformed Nepal. He wrote, “Our family was affected by the violent attacks on some businesses, but we are neither discouraged nor shaken. With today’s golden morning, we hope the country moves forward positively, democracy is strengthened, and we remain committed to generating employment and investment.” He added, “The light after darkness will inspire all Nepalis to uphold harmony and unity.”

The incidents, which occurred just before Dashain, the peak business season of the year, have caused substantial economic losses, impacting multiple leading enterprises across the country. The protest not only resulted in the destruction of property, but also caused the closure of customs points across the country. The northern border crossings, already disrupted by the recent flood and landslides, has again suffered from disruption in the supply chain of the nation. Coupled with the closure of the southern border as well, it has further caused the market activities to dwindle, making the future of business and economy uncertain.

Nonetheless, the business houses of Nepal are hopeful for a better future and stronger Nepal, along with the faith to have a stable geopolitical and economic environment in the long run.