Nepal in Turmoil: Political Collapse and Gen Z Rebellion

 

Nepal in Turmoil: Political Collapse and Gen Z Rebellion

Kathmandu is aflame—metaphorically and literally—as streets erupt in the nation’s most violent political uprising in decades. A sudden, sweeping Social media Ban triggered by a government intent on strict platform regulation ignited latent frustrations, particularly among young citizens (Gen Z). But what began as an uproar over digital censorship rapidly evolved into a full-blown Rebellion against entrenched corruption, inequality, and failed governance.

The Flashpoint: A Social Media Ban

Authorities blocked over two dozen platforms—including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube—after demanding strict registration and local oversight that many companies failed to meet. Platforms like TikTok and Viber, which complied, remained accessible. The Ban was widely perceived as a blunt attempt to control dissent—and it backfired spectacularly. The youth took to the streets.

Youth-Led Uprising: Beyond Digital Rights

What began as protests against censorship quickly morphed into a seismic movement fuelled by long-standing grievances. Nepal’s nearly one-fifth unemployment rate and persistent poverty collided with rising frustration over political dynasties and “nepo kids” flaunting privilege. Gen Z seized the moment—no longer silenced, demanding not just policy reversal, but systemic overhaul.

Escalation: Violence, Arson, and Political Collapse

The uprising turned deadly. Security forces—using tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and live ammunition—left around 19 to 22 protesters dead, along with police casualties and hundreds injured. Buildings burned, including the Parliament and homes of political leaders. Bombarded by fear and fury, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned and fled. An attempt to quell Rebellion by lifting the Ban proved too little, too late.

A Fragile Peace

The Nepali Army and curfews are now enforcing order amid a power vacuum. The Tribhuvan International Airport stands closed, flights rerouted, tourists stranded, and the nation teeters at the brink of chaos. What began as resistance to a digital clampdown has blossomed into a full-scale challenge to the very structure and legitimacy of Nepal’s political system.

Root Causes: Why This Exploded Now

Nepal’s democratic institutions, still fragile after decades of internal conflict and frequent government turnover, were ill-prepared for such unified dissent. A history marked by fragile coalitions and weak governance created fertile ground for a Gen Z uprising now demanding accountability, transparency, and real change.

The Big Picture: What’s Next for Nepal?

The movement has already reshaped the political terrain. A new generation is no longer content with empty promises. They seek leadership that serves the nation—not cronyism. The path ahead hinges on whether leaders heed this call for reform—or attempt to reassert control, risking further unrest.

Shrishty Sharma
Manager – HR, Asiatic International Corp
📧 Shrishty@Flying-Crews.com | Shrishty@air-aviator.com
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