Nepal, often regarded as India’s closest neighbor bound by geography, culture, and history, is witnessing a youth-led upheaval unprecedented in its democratic journey. The Generation Z protests, triggered by political disillusionment and state repression, represent a demand for accountability, transparency, and equal opportunity. Their intensity has shaken Kathmandu’s political establishment and carries strategic implications for India.

Reasons Behind the Gen Z Protests

• Build-up of Discontent

1. 1. 1. Youth-led groups like Next Generation Nepal criticized entrenched corruption and nepotism in governance.
      2. Growing anger against the privileges of political elites’ children, termed “Nepo Kids”, symbolized generational inequality.
      3. Limited economic opportunities and unemployment deepened frustration.

• Immediate Triggers

1. 1. 1. The government’s ban on 26 social media platforms curtailed free expression.
      2. Police firing on September 8, 2025, killing 19 protesters, acted as a flashpoint for mass mobilization.

• Escalation of Violence

1. 1. 1. The attack on Singha Durbar, Federal Parliament, and residences of five former Prime Ministers demonstrated public fury at political elites.
      2. Leaders like Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel were directly targeted, while opposition leader Rabi Lamichhane was released by protesters.

• Political Fallout

1. 1. PM K. P. Sharma Oli resigned, creating a governance vacuum.
   2. The Nepal Army assumed control of security but avoided political takeover.
   3. Calls for dissolution of Parliament and interim government signal deep constitutional instability.
2. Sociological Dimension: 
   1. Gen Z, digitally connected and globally aware, continued mobilizing even after social media bans, reflecting the role of technology and global exposure in shaping modern protest movements.

Possible Impacts on India

• Security Concerns along the Border

1. 1. 1. Instability may spill into India via the open Indo-Nepal border, risking smuggling, trafficking, and unrest.
      2. India must enhance border surveillance while respecting traditional free movement.

• Impact on Bilateral Relations

1. 1. 1. Neutrality is essential; any perception of India adopting a “big brother attitude” may deepen anti-India sentiment among Nepali youth.
      2. Hence, India must avoid overt alignment with any faction and instead pursue balanced engagement with all stakeholders to preserve long-term goodwill.

• Strategic Competition with China

1. 1. 1. A political vacuum could allow deeper Chinese influence in Nepal’s economy and security.
      2. India needs proactive diplomatic outreach and cultural engagement.
   2. Migration and Labour: 
      1. Unrest may accelerate outward migration of Nepali youth to India and Gulf countries, creating irregular flows across the border and affecting India’s job markets in border states.

• Economic and Trade Disruptions

1. 1. 1. Protests may affect hydropower projects, cross-border electricity trade, and supply chains critical for Indian states like Bihar and UP.
      2. Indian investments risk delays and security challenges.

• Regional Stability and Diplomacy

1. 1. Nepal’s unrest underscores the fragility of South Asian democracies.
   2. India must pursue quiet diplomacy to reinforce its Neighborhood First Policy and regional peace.

The Gen Z uprising in Nepal is not merely a political crisis but a societal awakening demanding clean governance and dignity of opportunity. For India, it presents a diplomatic test; balancing security interests, countering external influence, and supporting Nepal’s democratic aspirations. By adopting a strategy of measured neutrality, cultural solidarity, and economic reassurance, India can both safeguard its interests and strengthen regional stability.