Nepal's Political Transition: A Legacy of Instability and the Challenges Ahead
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (India-Nepal relations, Political systems of neighboring countries); World History (Democratic movements); Indian Polity (Proportional Representation, Federalism).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations & Polity): India and its neighborhood- relations; Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries (e.g., electoral systems); Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure.
Key Highlights from the News
Recent "Gen Z protests" in Nepal are a result of the country's long-standing political instability and corruption.
After the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, an interim government was formed under the leadership of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki.
Special feature of Nepal's political instability: Unlike other neighboring countries, Nepal has seen the same leaders playing musical chairs, creating a situation of "stable instability."
The Jan Andolans (popular movements) of 1990 and 2006 were led by political parties against the monarchy. However, the 2025 protest was led by youth against all political parties.
Challenges ahead:
Constitutional reforms proposed by the interim government will have less legal validity.
Weakening of federalism and Proportional Representation may lead to protests from marginalized communities like Madhesis and Janjatis.
The article states that conducting free and fair elections is the best way forward for Nepal.
In this crisis, India adopted a restrained stance, which is considered a good diplomatic move.
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