Context:
- Nepal’s elected government collapsed following widespread violent protests, leading to the unconstitutional dissolution of Parliament.
- An interim government led by Sushila Karki has been appointed to oversee the country until the 2026 elections.
- The crisis raises serious concerns about constitutionalism, democratic stability, and regional implications, including for India–Nepal relations.
Key Highlights:
Political Developments / Constitutional Crisis:
- Dissolution of Parliament violated Article 76 of Nepal’s 2015 Constitution, which clearly defines conditions under which a government can be dissolved.
- Formation of an interim government to restore order and conduct elections.
Nature of Protests:
- Gen Z–led protests triggered by:
- Poor governance and corruption
- Restrictions on freedom of expression, including the ban on 23 social media platforms
- Protests turned highly violent, resulting in:
- 74 deaths
- Burning of Parliament and the Supreme Court
Institutional and Economic Impact:
- Direct attacks on democratic institutions threaten Nepal’s post-2006 constitutional order, established after a decade-long civil war.
- Expected severe economic losses, disruption of governance, and investor uncertainty.
Governance and Social Concerns:
- Protest decision-making through online forums raises issues of:
- Representation deficit
- Risk of digital manipulation and misinformation
- Growing pressure on mainstream political parties to allow new leadership to emerge.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Political instability and breakdown of constitutional governance in Nepal.
- Causes:
- Governance failures and corruption
- Curtailment of civil liberties
- Youth alienation from traditional political structures
- Government Response:
- Appointment of an interim government
- Commitment to fresh elections
- Benefits (Intended):
- Temporary political stability
- Opportunity for democratic reset
- Challenges:
- Restoring public trust
- Ensuring accountability for violence
- Preventing recurrence of unconstitutional actions
- Impact:
- Weakening of democratic institutions
- Potential regional instability in South Asia
Relevant Mains Points:
Facts, Provisions, and Definitions:
- Article 76 (Nepal Constitution, 2015): Governs formation and dissolution of government.
- Constitutionalism: Governance strictly according to constitutional principles.
- Interim Government: Temporary authority until democratic elections are held.
- Republic: Sovereignty rests with people and elected representatives.
Conceptual & Comparative Dimensions:
- Threats to democratic consolidation in post-conflict states
- Role of youth movements and digital platforms in modern protests
- Balancing freedom of expression with public order
India–Nepal Angle:
- Political instability in Nepal affects:
- Border management
- Trade, transit, and security cooperation
- India’s interest in a stable, democratic, and constitutional Nepal
Way Forward:
- Uphold constitutional supremacy and judicial independence
- Ensure accountability for violence against institutions
- Conduct free, fair, and inclusive elections
- Reform governance to address youth aspirations
- Strengthen institutional resilience against populist and extra-constitutional pressures
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS Paper 2: Constitution, governance, international relations (India–Nepal)
- GS Paper 1: Post-conflict democratic transition, political developments in South Asia
- Prelims: Constitutionalism, interim government, republic