The recent wave of protests in Nepal, led by the country’s youth and popularly branded as a Gen Z movement, has shaken the very foundations of Kathmandu’s political landscape. What began as a protest against a social media shutdown has now spiraled into a full-blown anti-corruption uprising, culminating in the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. With at least 21 people dead and hundreds injured, Nepal is witnessing its most significant unrest in decades.
While on the surface, these protests appear to be driven by anger over corruption and economic stagnation, there are deeper, more troubling geopolitical currents at play. Behind the scenes, India’s historical posture towards its smaller neighbors, marked by interference and regional dominance raises serious concerns about whether these protests are entirely organic or subtly manipulated to serve New Delhi’s strategic interests.
The Protests: From Social Media Ban to Political Crisis
The crisis began when the Nepali government abruptly banned major social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube, citing misuse of these platforms for spreading misinformation, hate speech, and fraud. Nearly 90% of Nepal’s 30 million citizens rely on these platforms, making the decision deeply unpopular and politically explosive.
Students and young professionals took to the streets under banners reading “Shut down corruption, not social media” and “Youths against corruption.” The movement quickly expanded from a digital rights protest to a nationwide demand for accountability and reform.
Reports indicate that some protesters stormed the parliament complex in Kathmandu, setting fire to vehicles and clashing violently with police, who responded with tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets. The unrest has now spread to other cities, including Biratnagar, Bharatpur, and Pokhara, forcing authorities to impose curfews and deploy the army.
Prime Minister Oli’s resignation, though dramatic, has not quelled the unrest. Instead, it has left a dangerous political vacuum that external actors may seek to exploit.
India’s Historical Pattern of Interference
India’s relationship with Nepal has always been complex, swinging between partnership and pressure. In 2019, New Delhi released new political maps that controversially included Nepali territories like Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura as part of India—a move that drew sharp condemnation from Kathmandu.
This is not an isolated incident. India has repeatedly been accused of interfering in the domestic affairs of its neighbors:
- Maldives: The “India Out” campaign gained traction after Maldivian officials labeled Prime Minister Modi a “clown”, “terrorist,” and “Israel’s puppet.”
- Bangladesh: India has supported political elites, including former PM Sheikh Hasina, to maintain leverage despite public dissatisfaction.
- Sri Lanka: India’s role in the Tamil Tigers conflict and its suspected links to the 2022 riots highlight a recurring pattern of meddling.
- Pakistan: Former Indian Army Chief General Bikram Singh openly admitted to supporting anti-Pakistan elements, underscoring India’s willingness to destabilize its adversaries.
The emerging unrest in Nepal fits this pattern. By amplifying the protests through its powerful media networks and diplomatic channels, India can position itself as a regional influencer while undermining Nepal’s sovereignty.
The Gen Z Factor: A Genuine Uprising or External Manipulation?
There is no doubt that Nepal’s young population faces genuine grievances.
- Corruption: Successive governments have failed to curb rampant corruption, leaving citizens disillusioned.
- Economic Stagnation: With limited opportunities, thousands of Nepali youths migrate abroad each year for work and education.
- Digital Repression: The sudden social media ban was perceived as an attack on freedom of expression, triggering widespread anger.
However, external manipulation cannot be ruled out.
Indian media outlets, such as The Indian Express, have been giving extraordinary coverage to the protests, framing them as a youth-led democratic revolution. This narrative conveniently serves New Delhi’s interests by portraying Nepal’s government as repressive and delegitimizing its authority.
The timing is also suspect. The protests coincided with regional tensions involving India and its neighbors, suggesting a calculated attempt to divert attention and consolidate influence.
Wider Regional Implications
The crisis in Nepal is not just a domestic issue; it is a warning sign for the entire South Asian region.
- China Factor: Nepal is a key player in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Instability in Kathmandu directly impacts Beijing’s regional connectivity plans, which India opposes.
- Pakistan and Bangladesh: Both countries have faced Indian meddling in the past, from water disputes like the Sindh Taas Agreement to political engineering in Dhaka.
- Regional Balance: If India successfully leverages Nepal’s unrest, it will embolden similar strategies in other neighboring states.
This pattern of behavior solidifies India’s role as a “Net Security Destabilizer”, threatening not just Nepal’s sovereignty but also the collective stability of South Asia.
The Way Forward
For Nepal, the immediate priority is restoring order and addressing the legitimate demands of its citizens without succumbing to external influence.
- Inclusive Dialogue: The government must engage with youth leaders and civil society groups to rebuild trust.
- Anti-Corruption Reforms: Transparent and accountable governance is essential to reduce public anger and foreign meddling.
- Regional Solidarity: South Asian nations need to recognize India’s pattern of interference and build a collective framework to safeguard sovereignty.
For the international community, especially China and Pakistan, this is a moment to support Nepal through diplomatic and economic means while respecting its internal autonomy.
Conclusion
The Gen Z protests in Nepal are a stark reminder that in today’s interconnected world, domestic unrest can quickly become a geopolitical chess game. While the anger of Nepal’s youth is real and justified, it is equally clear that powerful neighbors like India are eager to exploit such movements for their own strategic gains.
If unchecked, India’s interference risks turning Nepal’s cry for justice into yet another proxy battleground in South Asia, with devastating consequences for regional peace and security. The world must act now and not just to support Nepal’s youth, but to prevent a broader destabilization of the Himalayan region.
