Nepal’s Gen Z Movement – A Deadly Mix of Social Media Toxicity and Youth Inexperience, with a Positive Prospect for Monarchy
Ramesh Chandra Sharma, Editor, Pen Today – Editorial
Yogi Adityanath and Nepal’s Gen Z Movement: A Deadly Mix of Social Media Toxicity, Youth Inexperience, and the Prospect of Monarchy
The Gen Z movement that erupted in Nepal in September 2025, initially emerging as a voice of youth against corruption and a social media ban, has now morphed into a synonym for violence and chaos. This movement has shaken the political stability of the nation and raised the critical question: can the unchecked power of social media and the inexperience of youth become a lethal combination for a country? Reports of at least 19 deaths and hundreds injured underscore the severity of the situation. It is deeply regrettable that what began as a robust democratic expression has pushed the country to the brink of instability. Amid this anarchy, however, some protesters are calling for the restoration of the monarchy, which could serve as a positive pathway to strengthen Nepal’s cultural unity and stability.
Background of the Movement: Misuse of Social Media and the Appeal of Monarchy
The movement was sparked by a government-imposed ban on platforms like Facebook and other social media channels. Gen Z youth, aged 13 to 28, grappling with unemployment and economic inequality, organized themselves through platforms like TikTok, Viber, and VPNs to voice their discontent. However, social media, which could have been a constructive tool, turned into a weapon of rumors and incitement. Protesters attacked the parliament building, set fire to media offices, and damaged national property. Police responded with rubber bullets and tear gas, but the escalating violence from the protesters worsened the crisis. Some reports suggest the movement has been “hijacked,” with antisocial elements steering the youth toward violence. Meanwhile, a section of the protesters is demanding the return of former King Gyanendra Shah, who could symbolize a return to traditional values and stable governance, as the monarchy historically united the nation and reinforced cultural identity.
Inexperience and Violence: A Dangerous Mix, but India’s Positive Role
The greatest tragedy of this movement is the lack of experience and concrete strategy among the participating youth. While their demands focus on eradicating corruption and inequality, violent protests and chaos have undermined their cause. Targeting foreign students and tourists, as seen in some incidents, is entirely unacceptable and tarnishes the movement’s original spirit. This situation is not unique to Nepal. In countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, youth movements fueled by social media have led to instability and economic crises. The deployment of the army and imposition of curfews reflect the gravity of the situation, yet it also raises the question: can this uncontrolled energy of the youth lead the country toward progress? In this context, India’s role is emerging positively, with protesters displaying posters of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. These posters, linked to Nepal’s Hindu identity and the call for monarchy restoration, strengthen the cultural and religious bonds between India and Nepal. Yogi Adityanath, as the head of the Gorakshpeeth, being featured alongside images of the former king symbolizes positive cooperation and shared values, highlighting India’s supportive role in Nepal’s stability.
Editorial Perspective: What Should Be the Way Forward?
The movement’s intent may be to highlight its ideology, but violence and chaos are not the means to achieve it. The toxicity of social media has misguided the youth, and their inexperience has further complicated the situation. The government must take strict action against corruption and open channels for dialogue, but the youth must also realize that violence will only lead to destruction, not progress. For a small and economically fragile nation like Nepal, this movement serves as a warning. However, the demand for monarchy restoration presents a positive alternative, potentially offering stability and cultural pride. India’s role, as reflected in the posters of Yogi Adityanath, stands as a cooperative and inspirational neighbor that can help Nepal navigate this crisis. It is time to channel the youth’s energy into democratic and peaceful methods, ensuring Nepal moves toward a prosperous and stable future. We must address the misuse of social media and prepare the youth for constructive leadership, not anarchy.
