• Source:JND
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Nepal Gen Z protests: Nepal is struggling with record political instability and civil unrest after two days of youth-led Gen Z protests were marred by violence, claiming a minimum of 19 lives and injuring hundreds. The protests, which began as a response to the government's social media blockade, rapidly branched out into a countrywide uprising against corruption, nepotism, and the perceived extravagant lifestyles of political leaders. The crisis reached a peak with the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and President Ram Chandra Paudel, leaving a constitutional void in the Himalayan country.

Army Assumes Control As Streets Remain Quiet

From early Wednesday morning, army troops fanned out across Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, and other major cities, enforcing strict restrictions and restoring a semblance of calm. The Nepali military took charge of national security operations starting 10 pm on Tuesday after violent demonstrations flattened government offices and aimed at the homes of top politicians. "We have sent our forces to avoid any unwanted incidents, such as looting and property damage," a Nepal Army headquarters officer said. "Our top priority is to safeguard lives, public assets, and national institutions," he added while saying this to the local media.

The streets of Kathmandu, which are usually crowded with commuters and daily activity, were empty. Few people ventured out, primarily to purchase essential supplies. Reports by the local media said that approximately 25 people who were trying to create unrest on the outskirts of the city were arrested. Security forces reacted immediately to fires lit in government buildings, such as the Parliament, the Prime Minister's home, and party political offices. The Tribhuvan International Airport was also locked down following demonstrators' breach of its perimeter, prompting Air India, IndiGo, and Nepal Airlines to suspend flights.

Nepali President Ram Chandra Paudel is also scheduled to meet a delegation of protesters on Wednesday in an effort to resolve the ongoing Gen Z-led movement through dialogue, the President’s office said. The meeting will also include representatives of the Nepalese Army to ensure a safe and orderly engagement.

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Gen Z Anger Over Corruption And Social Media Ban

The protests, led primarily by young people and students, were initially triggered by the government’s September 4 decision to block 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. Authorities cited cybersecurity concerns and non-compliance with registration laws, but citizens perceived it as a move to curb free speech. “Young people in Nepal have reached a breaking point. This is not just about a social media ban. It’s a generational revolt against systemic corruption, nepotism, and the economic struggles faced by ordinary citizens,” political analyst Shyam Shrestha said to ANI.

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Although the military has taken control of key infrastructure and re-established temporary order, the nation has a precarious path ahead. Whether or not the leaders can turn the uprising into genuine reforms or let the country slip into long-term instability under the military's grip is not clear. For the moment, Kathmandu's streets are peaceful, but the political, social, and constitutional consequences of the last two days indicate that Nepal stands at a crossroads in history, and the fate of its governance hangs in the balance.