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In the heart of Nepal’s political and social turbulence, the recent crackdown on social media platforms and the violent suppression of protests have ignited an intellectual and emotional firestorm. The Nepalese government’s decision to ban 26 social media platforms, ostensibly for failing to register with the local authorities, stands as a symbolic act in the ongoing struggle for freedom, identity, and economic prosperity. It is a moment where the youth, who are the harbingers of the future, are caught in a whirlwind of contradictions: between political repression and the desire for open expression, between material struggle and digital independence.

In a country that has witnessed numerous revolutions, be it against monarchy or corruption, this new wave of resistance, known as the “Gen-Z Movement,” emerges as a metaphor for a generation caught in the crossfire of past grievances and future aspirations. The struggles faced by Nepalese youth are not confined to the boundaries of social media, nor are they just about a digital ban. They represent a deeper yearning for a life of dignity, economic stability, and political fairness. This article explores how the youth of Nepal, armed with social media and a spirit of defiance, are writing a new chapter in the country’s history, a chapter not of surrender but of unyielding resistance.

Nepal's Background: The Context Behind the September 2025 Incident

To fully understand the significance of the Gen-Z Movement in Nepal and the political unrest sparked by the social media ban in September 2025, it's essential to explore the historical, political, and social context of Nepal. Nepal's journey toward democracy, coupled with its struggles with political instability, corruption, and socio-economic challenges, created the perfect storm for the youth to rise against an oppressive regime. Here are some reasons:

1. Political Landscape: A Fragile Democracy

Nepal, a landlocked country in South Asia, has long struggled with political instability and governance issues. The monarchy, which had ruled Nepal for centuries, was officially abolished in 2008, leading to the establishment of a federal democratic republic. The 2006 People's Movement (Jana Andolan II) had been a critical turning point in this transition, toppling the autocratic monarchy of King Gyanendra and paving the way for a more inclusive democratic framework. Despite the formal end of the monarchy, Nepal's democratic transition has been fraught with challenges. The political system has been marked by a fragmented party structure, frequent coalition governments, and a lack of political consensus. Parties have often been mired in internal disputes, hindering effective governance. The Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 2015, was a historic achievement, but it has been a source of contention for various groups, especially marginalized communities, who feel their interests have been sidelined. This political fragmentation has fueled unrest and discontent, setting the stage for the rise of grassroots movements demanding greater political reform.

2. Economic Struggles: Youth Unemployment and Migration

Nepal is one of the poorest countries in South Asia, and its economic development has consistently lagged behind its neighbors. Despite efforts to modernize, the economy has remained heavily reliant on agriculture, with limited industrial and infrastructural development. Unemployment, particularly among the youth, is a major issue, and many Nepali citizens are forced to seek work abroad, often in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The economic frustration is most acute among the youth, who, after years of political instability and economic stagnation, have become disillusioned with the promise of a better future in Nepal. According to estimates, over 3 million Nepali workers are employed abroad, sending back remittances that constitute a significant portion of the country's GDP. This economic reliance on migration has created a cycle of brain drain, where the country’s best and brightest leave for better opportunities overseas, further stunting domestic development. At the same time, the youth are forced to witness the growing wealth disparity between ordinary Nepali citizens and the political elite, many of whom flaunt their luxurious lifestyles. The "Nepo-kids", children of the political and business elites, became symbols of this deep-rooted inequality, contributing to the growing frustration among young Nepalese.

3. Social Media and Youth Empowerment

In recent years, social media has become an important platform for Nepali youth to express their opinions, engage in activism, and even generate income through content creation. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube have allowed the youth to build networks, organize movements, and raise awareness on pressing social and political issues. However, the same platforms that empowered the youth were also viewed by the government as a threat to its authority. Social media has become a space for open criticism of government policies, corruption, and mismanagement. The rising number of youth-led digital movements and protests, which had garnered attention on both local and international levels, indicated that the political power structure in Nepal was facing increasing resistance from its younger demographic. The role of digital activism had been particularly evident during the 2019 protests against the government’s decision to introduce controversial amendments to the Constitution and its handling of the COVID-19 crisis. Social media has become an indispensable tool for the youth to mobilize and demand accountability.

4. The Social Media Ban: A Political Maneuver

The decision to ban 26 social media platforms in September 2025 came at a time when Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his government were already under considerable pressure due to internal political instability, the economic crisis, and the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government, citing security concerns and the lack of local registration of foreign-owned social media companies, issued an order for these platforms to comply with local laws. While TikTok was spared, the ban on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms sparked immediate backlash, especially from the youth, who relied on these platforms not just for social interaction but for economic livelihood and political expression. The decision was seen as a deliberate attempt to stifle dissent and curtail the growing influence of youth voices in Nepalese political discourse. The Supreme Court of Nepal had earlier ordered the government to ensure that social media platforms adhere to local regulations. However, the failure of these companies to register within the specified period led to the government's enforcement of the ban, even though platforms like Facebook and Instagram were crucial tools for business, education, and communication for millions of Nepali citizens.

5. The Seeds of Unrest: A History of Discontent

The 2025 incident was not an isolated event in Nepal's political history. It echoed earlier struggles in Nepal's past, particularly the 1950s (the first movement against the monarchy), the 1990 People's Movement (Jana Andolan I), and the 2006 People's Movement (Jana Andolan II), all of which were uprisings against autocratic rule. Each of these movements, though different in their specific goals, shared a common theme: the desire for greater freedom, democracy, and equality. Despite the 2008 abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a democratic republic, Nepal’s political system has remained unstable. The lack of political unity, endemic corruption, and the failure to deliver on promises of economic prosperity left many citizens frustrated, particularly the younger generation, who had hoped that the end of the monarchy would usher in a more equitable society. Over the years, political leaders and parties have been accused of maintaining the same patterns of patronage and corruption that plagued the monarchical system.

6. The Gen-Z Movement: A New Chapter in Nepali Politics

The Gen-Z Movement was the culmination of years of accumulated frustration. Young people, particularly students, took to the streets to demand not just the restoration of their digital rights, but also the resignation of political leaders who had failed to address the core issues of corruption, unemployment, and economic disparity. The movement symbolized a growing youth awakening in Nepal, where young people no longer felt they should be passive.

Nepal's Digital Democracy Experiment

Background of Gen Z

Following two days of street protests that brought down Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and resulted in 72 fatalities, Nepal's Gen Z activists resorted to an unprecedented process to choose an interim prime minister—a virtual referendum on Discord, the gaming platform just banned by the government.

The Discord Debate Themes: 

Convened by Hami Nepal, the young group that organized the demonstrations, on the "Youth Against Corruption" Discord channel. More than 10,000 attended live, and another 6,000 watched on YouTube when servers were overwhelmed. Attendees—largely part of the Nepali diaspora—engaged in online debates on major national concerns: employment, police and university reform, health care, corruption, and protester killings.

Selecting the Interim PM. Last shortlist standing: Harka Sampang, Mahabir Pun, Sagar Dhakal, Rastra Bimochan Timalsina (Random Nepali), and Sushila Karki. Following hours of open discussion and live engagement with candidates, Sushila Karki, 73, a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court who made anti-corruption decisions, was elected. President Ramchandra Paudel dissolved the parliament and summoned a general election on 5th March 2026. Karki promised a six-month caretaker period to pass the reins to the next parliament.

Key Features & Reactions

  • Egalitarian & transparent: Anyone could address without fear, unlike backroom party bargains. Fact-checking sub-room pushed back against rumors (e.g., that protest leader Sudan Gurung was not a citizen or was involved with royals). Others tried to influence opinion with multiple versions; pro-monarchy forces attempted infiltration. Journalist Pranaya Rana labeled it "the future," while cautioning against threats of manipulation and disinformation. 
  • Significance: Represents an extreme experiment in digital democracy, reflecting frustration among young people with corruption, political crisis (14 governments since 2008), and elite privilege. Activists such as Padmini Pradhanang called for the younger generation to establish a culture of accountability and honesty, whereas certain participants, such as law graduate Regina Basnet, expressed fear of violence and disorientation following the revolt. Nepal's Gen Z transformed a banned video game app into a countrywide civic platform, demonstrating both the potential and risks of online sites as mediums of political choice-making.

Crackdown in Nepal: The Gen-Z Movement

On September 4th, the Nepalese government, led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, banned 26 social media platforms, except for TikTok. The ban was imposed because these companies had not registered locally with the Nepalese government or designated grievance officers. Initially, the Supreme Court of Nepal had ordered the government not to permit platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media networks to operate without official registration with the government. The government had asked these companies to register within a specified period (7 days), but they did not comply. As a result, the government banned 26 social media platforms, which had become significant sources of income and communication for many Nepali citizens.

On September 8th, in Kathmandu, at 9 AM, students gathered peacefully on the streets with banners demanding that the government lift the social media ban. The police initially allowed the protesters to march forward. However, after a short while, the authorities began using tear gas, rubber bullets, and eventually live ammunition. In the ensuing violence, 19 people were killed, and over 400 were injured, some with severe injuries to their heads and chests. The most tragic incident was the death of a 12-year-old. This tragedy spurred many students and citizens to rush toward the Parliament, attempting to break through the gates. The abolition of Nepal’s monarchy occurred 10 years ago, but there have been no significant political, economic, or educational reforms since then. This lack of change fueled the protests, which soon transformed from a demand for social media freedom into an “Anti-Corruption Movement” targeting all political parties. Sudan Gurunk, the 36-year-old founder of the NGO Hami, organized discussions and protests, encouraging peaceful and legal actions against the ban. Using platforms like Discord and Instagram through VPNs, they mobilized students to join the movement. This movement became known as the "Gen-Z Movement." The students' protests escalated beyond the social media ban and began to challenge broader issues, including freedom, corruption, economic inequality, and the lack of quality education. While many Nepali youth were migrating abroad in search of jobs, some “Nepo-kids” (children of affluent political families) flaunted their luxurious lifestyles, which fueled resentment. People started asking: where did these “Nepo-kids” get their money, while the rest of the country struggled with unemployment and corruption? The government's crackdown on social media, similar to efforts in India, seemed aimed at silencing youth voices, consolidating political control, and further enriching the ruling elite. This was not the first time Nepal had faced such political unrest. The 1950s, 1990s, and 2006 saw major movements, but none had experienced a crackdown of such magnitude in just 24 hours.

In the wake of the crackdown, PM Oli claimed the ban was not intended to curb social media, but rather to combat violence. However, this statement came too late, as the youth were already furious over corruption, unemployment, and political manipulation. As protests continued in Kathmandu, the anger of the youth reached a boiling point. Political party offices, including those of the Prime Minister, President, and other cabinet ministers, were set on fire. The most symbolic act of defiance came when the Parliament itself was attacked and burned. Nepal's national day was approaching, a reminder of the 2008 transition from monarchy to a federal democratic republic and the establishment of the Constitution in 2015. Amid the chaos, political leaders resigned, and many sought refuge abroad.

Nepal's Political Parties and Elite Powers Circulation

Nepal's politics has been controlled for decades by the turnover of elite power with minimal space for new ideas and new leaders. The nation's rule has predominantly been in the hands of two mighty forces, the  Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), which is further split into two major groups: CPN-UML and CPN-MC.

This VIP power rotation has brought about the feeling of political stagnation. These leaders, like Sher Bahadur Deuba of Nepali Congress, Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) of CPN-MC, and KP Sharma Oli of CPN-UML, have all occupied the office of Prime Minister more than once. Public frustration is growing, however, as corruption scandals, abuse of power, and broken promises continue to dominate Nepal's political discourse.

The ex-PM Sher Bahadur Deuba has been implicated in illegal commissions for an aircraft purchase scandal, and his wife, the present foreign affairs minister Arzu Rana Deuba, is accused of a citizenship scandal, purportedly assisting in the conversion of Nepali citizens to Bhutanese nationals. Likewise, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the erstwhile leader of the Maoist guerrilla struggle, has been implicated in abuses of Maoist funds intended for ex-combatants. Recently stepped down Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of CPN-UML is accused of defying a Supreme Court directive by converting a tea estate into commercial land, stirring grave doubts about the rule of law.

These scandals have strengthened the impression that Nepal's political leaders are more concerned with keeping their stranglehold on power and riches than with addressing the problems of common people.

It is this context that has created the Gen Z protest movement sweeping across Nepal. Youth today are questioning the establishment outright, seeking accountability, openness, and an entire transformation of the existing system. The message: bring an end to the concentration of power in the same few parties and families, and give room to new leadership that can bring tangible change.

At the heart of this movement is the belief that Nepal deserves better governance. Generation Z is no longer willing to accept a status quo where corruption, migration, and unemployment are everyday realities while politicians play musical chairs with the country’s future. These protests are not against one leader or one party — they are a scream for a new political culture in which good governance, respect for Supreme Court judgments, and equal opportunities for the young generation are non-negotiable.

If these demands for change go unheeded, Nepal stands to lose its brightest generation abroad. But if they are not heeded, this might be the start of a new era, one where the sharing of elite power is supplanted by youth engagement, and where Nepali politics begins to represent the people again, rather than the politicians.

Internal Political Issues in Nepal:

  1. Corruption
  2. Unemployment
  3. Economic Stagnation
  4. The display of wealth by "Nepo-kids" while ordinary people struggle to find jobs
  5. Political games and manipulation

Reasons behind the Gen-Z Movement:

  1. The Supreme Court's order for all social media platforms to register officially with the Nepalese government. PM Oli gave companies seven days to comply, but only TikTok adhered.
  2. The government's attempt to suppress the voices of youth, especially against the lavish lifestyles of political leaders and “Nepo-kids.”
  3. Rampant corruption.
  4. Unemployment.
  5. Lack of economic growth.
  6. The flaunting of wealth by the “Nepo-kids” while ordinary Nepali citizens struggle.
  7. The violent crackdown on students by the Nepalese government.
  8. 19 killed and over 400 injured, with many of the injuries being critical.
  9. A 12-year-old student was killed by government bullets.
  10. The death toll in this crackdown surpassed that of the 2006 movement against King Gyanendra.
  11. Millions of Nepali citizens are migrating abroad for work and employment.
  12. The ban on social media.
  13. The blocking of online income sources such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, etc.
  14. The government’s efforts to control social media.
  15. The attempt to suppress youth voices.
  16. The Supreme Court’s ruling to mandate the registration of social media platforms.

Internal Reasons:

Inequality: Years of scandals and flaunted wealth of politicians’ children—labelled “nepo babies.”

Viral images, like minister’s son Saugat Thapa posing with luxury-brand boxes, sharpened outrage.

September’s ban on 26 social-media platforms (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, etc.) became the immediate trigger.

Nepal’s fragile democracy (14 governments since 2008, no full 5-year term) and low GDP per capita (<$1,500) deepened frustration; 14 % of citizens work abroad.

Voices from the Movement

Tanuja Pandey, 24, protester and organizer: demanded a march to protest corruption and exploitation of Nepal's resources. There was a peaceful gathering in Maitighar Mandala by mostly students in school and college; by midday, infiltrators on motorbikes created pandemonium near New Baneshwor Parliament. Live rounds were allegedly fired at protesters, including schoolkids.

Escalation & Aftermath

Following the initial shootings, mobs attacked parliament, the prime minister's office, the Supreme Court, and other locations, which were torched. The military declared a curfew and ultimately brought the situation under control. Sushila Karki, the former Supreme Court Chief Justice, became the interim prime minister, a decision many of the protesters favored.

Human Toll & Personal Stories

Loved ones grieve over victims such as 23-year-old Yogendra Neupane, who was shot in the back of the head while demanding change. Organizers like Pandey and fellow protester Aakriti Ghimire discuss trauma, remorse, and frustration despite the political win.

Concerns Going Forward

Pundits warn of the "unprecedented glorification of the army" as a stabilizing factor. Demonstrators objected to the involvement of contentious pro-monarchy activist Durga Prasai in talks. Pandey describes the movement as a "bold challenge to a system that has hoarded power for decades," and a political awakening for Nepal's youth.

Demands of the Students and Citizens:

  1. The resignation of all political leaders, including the Prime Minister, President, Home Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and others.
  2. The lifting of the social media ban.
  3. The establishment of an independent and transparent watchdog institution.
  4. A “New Nepal” that prioritizes the welfare of its people.

Outcomes of the Movement:

  1. All political parties resigned, from the Prime Minister to the Chief Minister.
  2. The social media ban was lifted.
  3. 19 people were killed, and more than 400 were injured.
  4. The largest crackdown in Nepal’s history within just 24 hours.
  5. The demands of the protesters were largely met, though at a heavy cost.

The Emergence of the Gen-Z Movement

The crackdown on social media platforms became the spark for what is now being called the "Gen-Z Movement." This movement is not only a reaction to the digital ban but also a collective expression of disillusionment with the status quo. For the youth of Nepal, social media is not just a platform for entertainment; it is a means of survival, self-expression, and activism. It is a space where they can voice their frustrations, critique political corruption, and demand change. Led by activists like Sudan Gurunk, the movement rapidly gained momentum, with thousands of students and young people joining protests in various parts of the country. The Gen-Z Movement, however, transcended the issue of social media alone. It became a broader call for systemic change, one that addressed the deep-rooted issues of corruption, unemployment, economic inequality, and political manipulation. In this context, the "Gen-Z" label is not just a generational marker but a symbol of resistance. It represents a generation that is tech-savvy, globally connected, and unwilling to accept the status quo. Social media, despite being the object of government censorship, became a tool for organizing protests, spreading information, and rallying international support.

Timeline of the Protest

From 8th to 19th September, after violent protests that claimed 74 lives, Nepal's elected government collapsed, with Parliament being dissolved. Former judge Sushila Karki has been appointed to lead an interim government until elections are held in 2026. The protests, largely driven by Gen Z, were sparked by deep dissatisfaction over poor governance, rampant corruption, and the increasing restrictions on freedom of speech—such as the government’s move to ban 23 social media websites. While the grievances of the protesters were legitimate, the way in which the transition unfolded was unconstitutional. According to Nepal's 2015 Constitution, Parliament can only be dissolved after failed attempts to appoint a Prime Minister, but that process was bypassed. Despite this, it is unlikely that the judiciary will step in due to the exceptional circumstances. What is most concerning, however, is the destruction caused by the protests. Protesters went so far as to burn down Parliament and the Supreme Court, destroying key documents in the process. This kind of violence not only puts Nepal’s governance at risk but also threatens its economic future. The attacks on these democratic institutions undermine the very foundations of Nepal's post-2006 Constitution, which was crafted to end the monarchy and bring about a more inclusive, democratic system. While the implementation of the Constitution has faced challenges, these institutions are still critical to ensuring Nepal’s future as a republic.

The interim government now faces the important task of bringing those responsible for the violence to justice. Any failure to act decisively will only encourage more lawlessness, which would destabilise the democratic institutions that took years to build. Some protesters claim that the violence was carried out by infiltrators, but the continued use of unaccountable online platforms like Discord, where anonymity allows for impersonation and misinformation, raises serious questions about the credibility and true representation of their actions. The frustration with the current political leadership, represented by figures like K.P. Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal, is understandable. However, this should not be used as an excuse to discredit the entire democratic system, as some protesters have done, echoing the sentiments of pro-monarchy elements. In fact, this crisis could prompt the political parties to bring in fresh leadership and make way for new ideas. In the meantime, the interim government must focus on protecting Nepal's democratic institutions and constitutional achievements, while also ensuring that free and fair elections are held. Only through such steps can Nepal hope to secure the promises of a more democratic and inclusive “Naya Nepal".

The Political Context: A Nation at the Crossroads

Nepal’s political landscape is marred by decades of instability, with corruption and economic stagnation being pervasive problems. The abolition of the monarchy in 2008 and the subsequent establishment of a federal democratic republic promised a brighter future for the citizens. However, a decade later, many Nepalese feel that this transition has failed to deliver.

The 2006 movement that led to the fall of King Gyanendra’s regime was hailed as a turning point, but it left a bitter aftertaste. While the monarchy was dismantled, the country’s political landscape remained fraught with inefficiency and corruption. For many young people, the promises made by political leaders ring hollow. The lack of jobs, the slow pace of economic growth, and the pervasive culture of political patronage have deepened the sense of disenchantment. As a result, when the government imposed the ban on social media, it was seen not merely as an attack on digital freedoms but as another layer of repression in an already strained political environment. The crisis in Nepal is not a singular phenomenon but part of a broader pattern of authoritarian governance in South Asia, where political leaders seek to control public discourse and suppress dissent. This authoritarian approach is reflected in the crackdown on social media platforms, a tool that has become central to the political activism of the youth.

The Supreme Court’s Order and the Government’s Response

On September 4th, 2023, the Nepalese government, under the leadership of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, imposed a ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). The ban came after these platforms failed to register with the Nepalese government or appoint grievance officers as mandated by a Supreme Court order. While the government presented the ban as a necessary move to regulate foreign digital platforms, the real motive seemed to be an effort to stifle growing dissent. The Supreme Court’s order highlighted a central issue: the lack of regulation and accountability of foreign platforms operating in Nepal. However, the government’s response by targeting platforms used by millions of youth was widely perceived as an authoritarian move to control the flow of information and restrict free expression. For many young people, social media has become a primary outlet for discussing political issues, organizing protests, and exposing corruption.

This attempt to stifle freedom of expression ignited a wave of protests across the country. On September 8th, a group of students gathered in Kathmandu, demanding that the government revoke the ban. Their actions were initially peaceful, but they were met with a brutal response from the police, who fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and even live ammunition on the protesters. This violence against unarmed students, including the tragic death of a 12-year-old, was seen as a turning point in the movement.

The Government’s Crackdown: Violence and Repression

On the night of September 8th, as protests escalated, the Nepalese police used increasing levels of force against the protesters. The violence reached its peak when the police opened fire on students, resulting in the deaths of 19 people and over 400 injuries, many of which were life-threatening. The brutality of the crackdown shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation from both domestic and international human rights organizations. The government’s justification for this violence, stating that the protests were linked to terrorism, was widely seen as an attempt to demonize the youth and delegitimize their demands. The death of a 12-year-old student added a tragic layer to the already volatile situation. In a country where youth unemployment is high and opportunities for social mobility are scarce, this incident became a poignant symbol of the systemic failures that the youth were protesting against. The crackdown was not only an attack on the youth but also on the very idea of democratic dissent. The government's response to peaceful protests through violence and repression raised serious questions about the state of democracy in Nepal and the willingness of political leaders to listen to their people.

The Rise of Political Discontent: Corruption and Economic Stagnation

Beyond the social media ban, the Gen-Z Movement was fueled by deep-seated political discontent. The economic stagnation in Nepal, exacerbated by widespread corruption, has led to a situation where millions of young people are forced to migrate abroad in search of work. This phenomenon, often referred to as "brain drain," is a direct consequence of the lack of job opportunities and the failure of the political system to deliver on its promises. Meanwhile, a small elite, often referred to as "Nepo-kids," flaunted their wealth and luxurious lifestyles, deepening the divide between the ruling class and ordinary citizens. The glaring contrast between the lives of the political elite and the struggles of the common people led to increasing frustration and anger among the youth. The protests were not just about social media bans; they were a manifestation of broader socio-economic issues—unemployment, corruption, and the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few.

The Global Context: Nepal's Struggle for Democracy and Freedom

Nepal’s struggle for democracy and freedom is not an isolated event but part of a larger global trend. Across the world, youth movements are using digital platforms to challenge authoritarian regimes and demand greater political and economic freedoms. From Hong Kong to Belarus, from Iran to India, young people are rising against governments that seek to curtail their freedoms. In Nepal, the Gen-Z Movement is a reflection of this global trend. It is a call for democratic accountability, transparency, and social justice. However, it is also a unique movement, shaped by the specific historical, political, and cultural context of Nepal. The youth of Nepal are fighting not just for the freedom to express themselves online but for a more just and equitable society.

Casualties & Emergency Interim Government Response

A minimum of 72 fatalities and more than 2,100 wounded. Bodies were recovered by search teams from burnt buildings, and 17 September 2025 was a national day of mourning. Numerous public offices were levelled; some operated from makeshift tents in order to provide services. Interim PM Sushila Karki assured 1 million Nepalese rupees (~US $7,000) to the kin of the victims and payments to injured people. She appealed for unity, condemned the burning as partially planned, pledged to probe conspiracies, and promised to resign within six months.

Domestic Reactions

Social media ban criticism: RPP and former Justice Minister Gobinda Bandi criticized the ban and police actions; RPP called for dissolution of the government. Demand for restraint: Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah defended the protesters' right to be heard. President Ram Chandra Poudel, the army, and the National Human Rights Commission called for restraint. Former King Gyanendra criticized the crackdown and appealed for peaceful protest. International Responses and Human Rights Groups India published a travel warning, suspended flights temporarily, and offered condolences; Bangladesh called for peaceful negotiation. Myanmar's ruler cautioned against "outside interference." United Nations representatives (Guterres, Volker Türk) called for respect for human rights and inquiries into excessive force. Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and global rights unions denounced the violent crackdown, called for independent investigations, and asked for protection of the rights of protesters and recovery of civil liberties. Politicians get rich while we suffer: Nepal's Gen Z Protesters Bring Down Government, Deadliest Unrest in Decades. The 8 September 2025 protests compelled Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to quit office in less than 48 hours, but took the lives of 72 and injured hundreds—Nepal's deadliest violence in decades. Government buildings, politicians' houses, and high-end hotels (including the Hilton) were burned or ransacked; ~300 local offices were destroyed. Estimated damages: ≈3 trillion rupees ($21 billion)—nearly half the nation's GDP.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Nepal’s Future

As Nepal stands at the crossroads of its political future, the message for its youth is clear: “Your voices matter”. In the face of repression, in the shadow of corruption, and amid economic struggles, it is the youth who will shape the future of Nepal. The Gen-Z Movement has already proven that young people can no longer be ignored. Through their resilience and creativity, they have shown the world that they will not remain silent in the face of injustice. However, the struggle is far from over. The future of Nepal depends on the ability of its youth to build a movement that is not just reactionary but transformative. It is not enough to demand the removal of the social media ban or the resignation of corrupt leaders. The youth must also work toward creating an inclusive and sustainable political and economic system that offers real opportunities for all. The Gen Z protests of 2025 stand as a testament to the resilience and determination of Nepal's youth. What began as a response to a government-imposed social media ban evolved into a nationwide movement that challenged deep-seated issues of corruption, political instability, and economic disparity. The tragic loss of 72 lives and the injury of over 2,100 individuals underscored the urgency for change and the power of collective action. To the World: A Call for Support and Solidarity. Nepal's struggle is not isolated. It reflects a broader global challenge where young populations are demanding accountability, transparency, and a voice in shaping their futures. The international community must recognize the aspirations of Nepal's youth and offer support in their pursuit of democratic reforms and social justice. Solidarity is not just about offering condolences but actively engaging in partnerships that promote sustainable development, human rights, and digital freedoms. 

To Nepal's Citizens: Embrace the Power of Change

The events of September 2025 have illuminated the power of unity and the importance of civic engagement. Citizens, especially the youth, have shown that their voices matter and can drive significant change. As the interim government, under Prime Minister Sushila Karki, prepares for parliamentary elections in March 2026, the populace must remain vigilant, informed, and active in the democratic process. The future of Nepal lies in the hands of its people, and now is the time to shape it with integrity and vision. 

To Nepal's Political Elites: A Mandate for Reform

The political upheaval that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the subsequent formation of an interim government signals a clear demand for accountability and reform. The youth-led protests have highlighted systemic issues that cannot be ignored. The political elite must recognize this as a mandate to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal or partisan interests. Implementing transparent policies, combating corruption, and fostering inclusive governance are essential steps toward restoring public trust and ensuring a prosperous future for all Nepali citizens. 

Looking Ahead: 

A New Dawn for Nepal. The aftermath of the protests presents an opportunity for Nepal to redefine its trajectory. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of unrest, the interim government has pledged to focus on transparency, job creation, and raising living standards. The scheduled elections in 2026 offer a platform for the youth to continue their advocacy and for all citizens to participate in shaping a government that truly represents their aspirations. Nepal stands at a crossroads. The choices made in the coming months will determine whether the nation continues down a path of division and disillusionment or embraces a future of unity, progress, and justice. The world is watching, and now is the time for Nepal to rise to the occasion and lead by example.

To the youth of Nepal: “Your time is now.” The future is in your hands. Rise above the challenges, stay united, and build the Nepal you deserve.

.    .    .

References:

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