Nepal PM Balen Shah's Troubles Mount: Besieged from All Sides Immediately Upon Taking Office; Now Students Take to the Streets

Protests against Prime Minister Balen Shah’s government have intensified in Nepal. It has been less than a month since the government was formed, yet people across the country have taken to the streets. Students, political parties, and ordinary citizens are staging protests in several cities, including Kathmandu.

The demonstrations are not limited to the streets; they have reached as far as Singha Durbar, the country’s administrative hub. These protests reflect growing discontent over certain decisions made by the government. A major catalyst for the protests is the government’s decision to mandate the imposition of customs duties on goods imported from India valued at over 100 rupees.

Rising Resentment in Border Regions

Residents of border areas argue that they rely on India for their daily necessities; consequently, this decision directly impacts their lives. They allege that the government has disregarded the ground realities. Protesters contend that this policy places an additional financial burden on the common people. As a result, anger against this decision is escalating rapidly.

Another major cause for the protests is the government’s stance regarding student unions. It is alleged that the government is attempting to sideline or dismantle student organizations affiliated with political parties. Student leaders have characterized this approach as repressive, stating that the government is resorting to pressure tactics rather than engaging in dialogue.

Thousands of students across the country have joined the demonstrations. In several locations, students were seen taking to the streets in their school uniforms, chanting slogans—a clear indication that this movement has now assumed a widespread character.

Allegations Against Home Minister; Calls for Resignation Intensify

A significant focal point of the protests involves allegations leveled against Home Minister Sudan Gurung. He faces accusations of possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income and of involvement in suspicious financial transactions. The opposition and the protesters claim that Gurung has maintained ties with individuals linked to controversial business dealings.

Nepalese media outlets have also reported on documents pertaining to these matters, thereby intensifying calls for his resignation. Political parties and social organizations have continued to stage persistent protests regarding this issue as well.