Nepal Gen Z Protest Update

On Tuesday (September 9), Nepal witnessed significant unrest as ‘Gen Z’ protesters set fire to government buildings, political offices, and homes of top political figures including several former Prime Ministers. This was a reaction to the repressive actions of the K P Sharma Oli regime.

Background of the Protest

• 19 young protesters were killed by police firing the previous day in Kathmandu.
• The unrest left Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli to resign and President Ram Chandra Poudel was under protection at an undisclosed location.
• Several ministers and politicians were attacked, defying curfew orders.

Social Media and Gen Z’s Role

• Discontent grew on social media platforms, with young people (born between 1996 and 2012) expressing frustration at the political system and corruption.
• Criticism focused on the extravagant lifestyles of politicians' children, trending terms like ‘Nepo Babies’ and ‘Nepo Kids’.
• The government’s ban on 26 social media platforms, which was a primary outlet for Gen Z, further aggravated their anger.

Outcomes and Demands

Protesters demanded the lifting of the social media ban, which was fulfilled on Monday evening. They also called for an end to corruption, social inequality, and lack of job opportunities.

Targeted Attacks

• Protesters attacked homes of at least five former Prime Ministers.
• Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of former PM Khanal, died due to the violence.
• Rabi Lamichhane, a critic of Oli, was freed from jail.

Political and Military Response

• The Army, under General Ashok Raj Sigdel, took over security operations, appealing for calm and reconciliation.
• Political figures like Balen Shah and RSP leader Lamichhane expressed support for the protesters.
• The pro-monarchy Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) considered mass resignation from parliament.

Former King’s Involvement

• Former King Gyanendra Shah expressed sympathy for affected families and suggested dialogue for resolving the crisis.
• An interim government is likely after settling the political agenda.

India’s Perspective

• India is deeply concerned due to Nepal's instability and its implications.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting on the situation, emphasizing the importance of Nepal's stability, peace, and prosperity.