Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, erupted in chaos as thousands of young protesters, identifying as the Gen Z movement, flooded the streets, demanding an end to systemic corruption and political elitism.
The unrest, sparked by a controversial social media ban, escalated into violence on Monday, leaving 19 dead and hundreds injured after security forces used live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas.
The crisis deepened with the resignations of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, but protesters insist these steps are insufficient, calling for parliament’s dissolution and new elections to address deep-rooted grievances.
Nepal’s economic woes, underscored by a 12.6% unemployment rate and heavy reliance on remittances, have intensified public frustration.
Over 741,000 Nepalis left for work abroad last year, sending back $11 billion, which accounts for 26% of the economy.
Yet, many young people see little opportunity at home, where corruption scandals, like the $71 million misappropriated in Pokhara’s airport project, erode trust.
The government’s ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, further alienated digitally native youth, who viewed it as an attempt to stifle dissent and disconnect families from migrant workers abroad.
The protests, initially planned as peaceful cultural events, spiraled when some demonstrators climbed parliament walls, prompting a deadly response from security forces.
The Kathmandu District Administration imposed a curfew, and the army was deployed, with tear gas fired even inside hospitals.
Organizers, like Anil Baniya of Hami Nepal, condemned the violence, noting external agitators exacerbated tensions.
The deaths, including that of engineering student Sulov Raj Shrestha, have galvanized demands for accountability.
Protesters, backed by figures like Kathmandu’s mayor Balen Shah, now seek mass resignations and a government overhaul, vowing to continue until their demands are met.