Why in News: Gen Z–led protests erupted in Nepal after the government banned 26 social media platforms (Sept 2025), leading to violent unrest, PM Oli’s resignation, and the appointment of ex–Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim PM.
Introduction
- The September 2025 uprising in Nepal, led predominantly by Gen Z, represents a sharp break from earlier political movements.
Reasons for the Protest
- Ban on 26 social media platforms on Sept 4, 2025.
- Seen as an attempt to curb dissent and digital freedoms.
- Anger against corruption, unstable governance, and poor economy.
- Frustration with a closed political loop dominated by Oli, Prachanda, and Deuba since 2015.
- Social media’s role as a livelihood and communication tool deepened discontent.
How the 2025 Movement Differs from Past Agitations
- Leadership: Gen Z activists without party affiliations vs. political parties (1990, 2006).
- Triggers: Social media ban & corruption vs. Panchayat system (1990) and monarchy (2006).
- Medium: Organized through Instagram, Discord, unlike street-based party mobilisation.
- Objective: Reform within a democratic republic, not to establish democracy itself.
- Target: Entire political class, demanding Parliament’s dissolution & fresh elections.
Youth Aspirations
- Transparent and accountable governance.
- Economic stability and job creation.
- End to entrenched political patronage.
- Inclusion of new, non-traditional leadership.
- Greater digital freedom and citizen rights.
Constitutionality of Parliament’s Dissolution
- Article 76(7): allows dissolution only after PM appointment failures.
- No provision for dissolution based solely on public protests.
- Dissolution by interim PM under extraordinary circumstances is questionable.
- Likely subject to Supreme Court judicial review.
Impacts on India:
- Border Trade: Disruption of essential supplies (fuel, food, medicines) due to partial closure of Indo-Nepal border.
- Security Concerns: Prison breaks raised risk of fugitives entering India; unrest along open border heightened vigilance.
- Indian Nationals: Tourists stranded; India issued travel advisories.
- Diplomatic Angle: India welcomed interim govt, seeks stability to protect democratic transition.
- Geopolitical Balance: Crisis may expand Chinese influence, challenging India’s role.
- Economic Fallout: Bordering Indian states (UP, Bihar, MP) saw dip in exports like onions, soybean meal.
UPSC Relevance
GS Paper 2 – International Relations / Governance
- India and its neighbourhood: political instability in Nepal and implications for bilateral ties.
Mains Practice Question
Q. The September 2025 Gen Z protests in Nepal represent both a challenge to entrenched political elites and an extra-constitutional assertion of youth power. Discuss the significance of this uprising for Nepal’s democratic trajectory and evaluate its implications for India’s neighbourhood policy. (250 words)