Nepal witnessed a dramatic political upheaval in September 2025. A youth-led movement against corruption escalated into violence and chaos. The government crackdown on protesters resulted in deaths and widespread destruction. This event, termed Jana Andolan-III, marked a critical moment in Nepal’s ongoing democratic struggles.
Background of Nepal’s Political Movements
Nepal’s modern political history is marked by repeated popular uprisings. The 1951 revolution ended the Rana oligarchy and restored the monarchy under King Tribhuvan. The 1990 Jana Andolan-I reintroduced multiparty democracy but kept the monarchy. Discontent with this led to a Maoist insurgency from 1996 to 2006. The 2006 Jana Andolan-II ended absolute monarchy and declared Nepal a federal democratic republic in 2008.
Causes of the 2025 Revolution
The 2025 movement emerged from widespread frustration over corruption and political stagnation. Young people, especially Gen Z, felt excluded from meaningful political participation. Despite democratic changes, socio-economic inequalities and misgovernance persisted. Digital media amplified discontent and mobilised protests rapidly without central leadership.
Events of September 8-9, 2025
The protests began peacefully but turned violent after police used force against demonstrators. Nineteen protesters died on the first day. On the second day, mobs attacked government buildings, including Parliament and the Supreme Court. Thousands escaped from prisons, worsening lawlessness. The country faced a political vacuum and uncertainty about its future.
Interim Government and Political Fallout
On September 12, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was appointed interim head of government. She became Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister. The President scheduled elections for March 2026. The appointment was controversial. The Nepal Bar Association declared the parliamentary dissolution unconstitutional. Questions arose about the role of Gen Z leaders, the army, and political factions in the transition.
Distinct Features of the 2025 Movement
Unlike previous uprisings, the 2025 revolution lacked a central leadership. It was spontaneous and digitally driven. Social media campaigns like nepobaby played a key role. Live streaming and online voting were used to select leadership. This digital energy reflected the globalised and connected nature of Nepal’s youth.
Historical Continuity and Challenges Ahead
The 2025 revolution is part of Nepal’s cycle of unfinished democratic reforms. Earlier movements sought to end monarchy and establish democracy. This one aimed to tackle corruption and increase youth representation. The challenges of inclusion, governance, and stability remain unresolved. How Karki’s interim government manages these will shape Nepal’s democratic future.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the impact of youth-led movements on democratic transitions in South Asia, with reference to Nepal’s Jana Andolan-III.
- Examine the role of digital media in shaping political protests and governance in contemporary democracies.
- Analyse the challenges of post-conflict political integration and inclusion, and how they affect state stability and governance.
- Estimate the consequences of political vacuums on law and order, and discuss mechanisms to restore constitutional governance during crises.
