What Triggered the Fresh Wave of Gen Z Unrest in Nepal?

Fresh protests erupted in Nepal’s Simara town on Thursday as Gen Z activists took to the streets again, reigniting tensions that flared during clashes with supporters of the former ruling party Communist Party of Nepal–Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML). Authorities responded by imposing a curfew from 12:45 pm to 8 pm in the Bara district to contain the unrest.

The confrontation stemmed from the CPN-UML’s plan to hold a 'Youth Awakening Campaign' in Simara, which was met with protests organized by Gen Z activists condemning the former government they describe as "murderous." The initial rally welcoming central leader Mahesh Basnet quickly escalated into verbal exchanges and violent scuffles near Simara Airport, where six youth activists were injured, prompting a complaint against UML cadres.

Gen Z protesters accused local police of failing to act against those named in their complaint, fueling dissatisfaction and prompting renewed demonstrations from the morning onwards. Two individuals, including local ward chairs, were detained in connection with the clashes. Police used tear gas and other forceful methods to disperse protestors and temporarily suspended airport operations due to the unrest.

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The protests highlight the ongoing political volatility following the youth-led uprising in September, which toppled the government of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki has urged restraint among political actors and called for peaceful conduct ahead of the scheduled elections in March 2026.

Simara continues to be a flashpoint where generational discontent and political rivalry collide, with young activists demanding accountability and a new direction for Nepal’s political landscape.

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