The Gen Z protests that erupted in Kathmandu on 8 September 2025 created a major political upheaval in Nepal. The government’s harsh police response intensified public anger. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned the next day, leading to a power vacuum. Talks between Gen Z leaders and Army Chief General A.R. Sigdel resulted in former Chief Justice Sushila Karki becoming interim Prime Minister on 12 September. Fresh elections were scheduled for 5 March 2026. A new apolitical cabinet is forming and calm has returned, but uncertainties remain about political futures and constitutional reforms.
Political Unrest in South Asia During the 2020s
The 2020s saw major political shifts in South Asia. Myanmar’s military seized control in 2021 ending democracy. The Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan the same year after US withdrawal. Sri Lanka’s 2022 protests ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Pakistan faced protests after former PM Imran Khan’s arrest in 2023, with the military maintaining control. Bangladesh’s 2024 protests forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign. Youth-led protests and high youth unemployment above 16% were common factors. Long-term rulers faced backlash over corruption and nepotism.
Nepal’s Unique Political Journey
Nepal’s political path has been marked by frequent government changes since the 2015 constitution. Seven governments led by few leaders created internal stability but encourageed cronyism and corruption. The 1990 Jan Aandolan ended absolute monarchy and introduced multi-party democracy. A Maoist insurgency from 1996 to 2006 caused 17,000 deaths. The 2006 Jan Aandolan restored parliament and ended monarchy in 2008. Constitution drafting took seven years. Political parties often played musical chairs with power but failed to deliver economic progress or job growth.
The 2025 Gen Z Protests and Interim Government
The 2025 protests differed from earlier movements by targeting all political parties for corruption and misuse of power. President Ramchandra Paudel appointed Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister under Article 61, focusing on national unity. The army played a key role in stabilising the situation. The interim government prioritises holding elections, investigating police excesses, and prosecuting corruption. However, challenges include alleged infiltration of protests by political gangs and a slow justice system.
Constitutional Challenges and Future Prospects
Debates are underway about amending Nepal’s 2015 constitution. Suggestions include a directly elected executive and reducing federalism by empowering local bodies. Such changes risk sparking protests from ethnic groups like Madhesis, Janjatis, and Tharus. Constitutional legitimacy and public trust are crucial to avoid further unrest. Established parties need internal reforms while new youth-led forces may emerge. Pro-monarchy groups could attempt a comeback amid the political flux.
India’s Role and Regional Stability
India has maintained a neutral stance during Nepal’s crisis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to congratulate the interim government showed diplomatic support. India’s restraint has avoided criticism in Nepal’s media. Peaceful, free and fair elections in March 2026 are seen as vital for Nepal’s stability. Any disruption risks reversing two decades of democratic progress and regional peace.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss in the light of recent events how youth movements have influenced political change in South Asia during the 2020s.
- Critically examine the challenges of constitutional amendments in multi-ethnic federal democracies with reference to Nepal.
- Explain the role of the military in political transitions in South Asian countries with suitable examples from Myanmar, Pakistan, and Nepal.
- With suitable examples, discuss the impact of prolonged political instability on economic development and governance in developing countries.
