Nepal Erupts: Youth-Driven Gen-Z Revolt, Parliament Torched, Army Declares Nationwide Curfew

Nepal is facing one of the most turbulent chapters in its modern history. Over the past week, the Himalayan nation has been shaken by massive youth-led protests that spiraled into violent clashes, arson attacks, and political upheaval. The movement, largely driven by Gen-Z citizens demanding an end to corruption and government mismanagement, has escalated into a nationwide crisis that shows no signs of slowing down.

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The Spark That Ignited the Flames

What began as peaceful demonstrations against alleged corruption scandals and restrictions on free expression quickly escalated into full-scale unrest. When the government attempted to impose social media restrictions, young people—who rely heavily on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram for news and activism—took to the streets in defiance.

The tipping point came when demonstrators stormed Kathmandu’s Parliament complex, setting parts of the building ablaze. Videos of the fire spread rapidly online, fueling even greater outrage and inspiring solidarity marches across major cities, including Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Lalitpur.

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Gen-Z at the Frontlines

Unlike past protests dominated by political parties, this revolt has been driven by Nepal’s Gen-Z generation—students, young professionals, and digital activists. Their demands go beyond temporary reforms:

End to political corruption and nepotism

Greater accountability from leaders

Protection of digital rights and online freedom

Immediate reforms in education and employment policies

Armed with smartphones, these young protesters have organized rallies, livestreamed events, and spread messages globally, ensuring their voices are heard far beyond Nepal’s borders.

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Violence, Deaths, and Escalating Chaos

The protests have turned deadly. Reports confirm that at least 19 people have been killed in violent clashes with security forces. Hundreds more have been injured as police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons to disperse crowds.

Shocking visuals of burning government vehicles, barricades, and soldiers patrolling the streets have emerged, painting a picture of a nation on the edge of collapse. Businesses have shuttered, public transport has halted, and schools remain closed as tensions mount.

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The Army Declares a Nationwide Curfew

In response to the growing violence, the Nepalese Army has imposed a strict nationwide curfew, effectively shutting down public life. Troops have been deployed across Kathmandu Valley and other hotspots to maintain order, but the presence of armed soldiers has only heightened fears of further crackdowns.

Airports and border crossings have also faced disruptions. Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport was temporarily closed, stranding thousands of travelers.

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Political Fallout: Prime Minister Under Fire

The chaos has sparked major political consequences. Nepal’s Prime Minister is facing mounting pressure to resign, with opposition parties blaming his administration for failing to address corruption and mishandling the crisis.

While the government has appealed for calm and dialogue, protesters remain unconvinced, insisting that youth voices must be heard and reforms must be implemented before they step back.

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Global Reactions

International organizations and human rights groups have expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis. Neighboring countries like India and China are closely monitoring the situation, as instability in Nepal could spill over into the wider South Asian region.

The United Nations has urged both protesters and the government to exercise restraint, calling for an immediate end to violence and a return to peaceful dialogue.

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What Lies Ahead for Nepal?

Nepal’s Gen-Z revolt is more than just a protest—it represents a generational shift demanding systemic change. With corruption, unemployment, and restrictions on freedom fueling discontent, the government faces an unprecedented challenge.

If genuine reforms are not introduced soon, experts warn that the unrest could plunge Nepal into prolonged political instability, jeopardizing its fragile democracy.

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Final Thoughts

The world is watching as Nepal’s youth rise against corruption and misrule. Whether this revolt leads to a new wave of democratic reforms or deeper chaos will depend on how the government responds in the coming weeks.

For now, the streets of Kathmandu remain tense, the Parliament stands scarred by fire, and the voices of Nepal’s young generation echo louder than ever before.