Nepal's Government Collapses Amid Gen Z-Led Protests

Nepal's government, led by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, has collapsed amidst a youth-led protest movement that has gained momentum over the country's decision to ban social media platforms and widespread anger over corruption. The protests, which began on Monday, have taken a violent turn, with demonstrators setting fire to Oli's residence and chasing Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel through the streets of Kathmandu. The government's reversal of the social media ban has failed to calm the situation, with protesters continuing to demand change.

Key Takeaways:

The protests in Nepal, led by Gen Z, began on Monday over a government ban on social media platforms and long-simmering anger over corruption, which has resulted in the collapse of the government.
Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's residence was set ablaze, and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel was chased through the streets of Kathmandu by furious demonstrators.
Oli resigned as prime minister under mounting pressure from the youth-led movement, which has resulted in at least 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Three other ministers had already stepped down amid the unrest, and the government's decision to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, was the trigger for the protests.
TikTok, which remained accessible, has been flooded with viral videos contrasting the hardships of ordinary Nepalis with the luxury lifestyles of politicians' children, fuelling the anger further.
The protests are led by the youth, who are demanding an end to corruption and better representation in the government.

Statistics:

At least 19 people have been killed, and hundreds injured in the protests.
Three other ministers have stepped down amid the unrest.
The government banned 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, which acted as the trigger for the protests.
TikTok, which remained accessible, has been flooded with over 100,000 viral videos contrasting the hardships of ordinary Nepalis with the luxury lifestyles of politicians' children.
The protests have resulted in the collapse of the government, with Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigning under mounting pressure from the youth-led movement.

Sources:

The Indian Express (@IndianExpress) September 9, 2025