Nepal is going through one of its most challenging times in recent history. The countrywide protests initiated by the Gen Z youths, which began as a reaction against corruption and a social media blockade, have grown more intense as a national crisis now. A total of at least 20 youths were killed after police opened fire during the protests. What began as demands for justice has now boiled over into violence, with the government offices on fire and even homes of political leaders attacked. The rage we see in the streets is not unfounded. Political leaders have promised but failed to deliver for a long time.
Sticking with New Year’s resolution
The majority of people feel that their voices are never heard, and the social media ban was the ultimate slap. But whereas the anger is real and justifiable, the path of violence is just leading the country deeper into misery. Burning buildings or injuring the leaders won't solve the problems that drove the youths to the streets in the first place. Amid this chaos, calls for patience and calm have started to be heard. Mayor Balen Shah has asked the young people to be patient, informing them that lasting change cannot be founded on devastation. Famous eye surgeon Dr. Sanduk Ruit also made an emotional appeal, asking the youth protesters not to vandalize public property after guilty leaders and ministers resigned. He commended their courage for standing up against corrupt leadership but insisted that it is the duty of all citizens to protect common resources. His words are being given weightage since they come from someone who has spent his entire life serving humanity, and not politics.
The chiefs of Nepal's three security establishments have also requested restraint and talks. They have called on the youths to drop stones and fire and open the door to negotiations instead to find a peaceful solution. They know that without peace, it is impossible to have any progress. Any new clash only jeopardizes more lives, more ruined families. It is now time for all sides to exercise restraint. The government must face up to its own failure and make space for political negotiations that respect the interests of the new generation. The opposition must be actively responsible and not throw fuel on the fire for personal reasons. Most importantly, the youths who are leading these protests need to remember that their courage will be greater if they accompany it with discipline. If anger continues to reign, the country can go even deeper into anarchy. But if patience and dialogue carry the day, this crisis can be a turning point towards a better future. This decision also lies with the leaders and the youth. Nepal of today must possess peaceful minds, open hearts, and solidarity in unity to restore order and peace in the nation.
