In a dramatic turn, Nepal’s fresh-faced government under PM Balendra Shah is alienating the very youth who voted it into office. The RSP’s electoral triumph followed massive Gen-Z protests that ousted KP Oli in September 2025 over economic woes and restrictions. But now, unpopular moves are igniting fresh fury across the Himalayan nation.
Two ministerial exits have already rocked the cabinet: Home Minister Sudan Gurung quit over money laundering charges on April 22, and Labor Minister Kumar Shah was dismissed for misconduct. Party insiders pushed for Gurung’s removal, highlighting internal rifts.
The real flashpoint is the border customs duty on items valued above 100 rupees imported from India – a lifeline for Nepali households in frontier areas. Daily necessities from food rations to apparel now carry extra costs, sparking protests and viral footage of inspections at checkpoints.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shah’s administration banned student unions and political activities on campuses right after inauguration. Campuses are buzzing with outrage as thousands march, branding the policy a betrayal of democratic rights. ‘We supported Shah to fight corruption, not silence us,’ one student leader declared.
Observers note this discontent stems from broader governance failures and persistent corruption allegations. Border residents lament the blow to their affordability, questioning if Shah’s promises were mere rhetoric. With history’s echoes from 2025 protests looming, can the government pivot to regain trust, or is instability inevitable?
