Did Police Orders Spark Deadly Protests Among Gen Z in School Uniforms?

The tragic events of 8 September 2022 in Nepal, where the former police chief allegedly ordered lethal force against unarmed protesters, highlighted the escalating tensions surrounding political corruption and youth disenfranchisement in the country. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals, including a schoolboy, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability amidst ongoing public inquiries and preparations for upcoming elections.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The aftermath of the protests on 8 September continues to reverberate throughout Nepal. A public inquiry is currently underway, investigating the decisions made that day, including the controversial order for lethal force issued by Chandra Kuber Khapung, the former inspector general of police, using the call sign "Peter 1". Despite the government’s assurances that all necessary protocols were followed, the lack of accountability remains a significant concern for the families of the victims and the public alike. As general elections approach on 5 March 2024, the political landscape is fraught with tension and uncertainty.

Key takeaways

• The order for lethal force during the protests was reportedly issued by the former police chief, Chandra Kuber Khapung.
• A total of 19 people were killed, including 17-year-old Shreeyam Chaulagain, who was unarmed and leaving the protest when shot.
• The government has initiated a public inquiry, but no arrests have been made as of yet.

Timeline: how we got here

Understanding the context of the events leading to the protests requires a timeline of key incidents:

• 2008: Nepal becomes a republic after a decade-long civil war.
• August 2022: Social media movements among Generation Z highlight political corruption, leading to increased public dissent.
• 4 September 2022: The government bans several social media platforms as tensions rise.
• 8 September 2022: Protests erupt in Kathmandu, leading to violent clashes with police.
• 9 September 2022: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigns; widespread violence ensues resulting in further fatalities.
• March 2024: General elections are set to take place amidst ongoing unrest.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent investigations have uncovered detailed accounts of the police's actions during the protests, including the internal communications that led to the deployment of lethal force. Eyewitness accounts and video evidence have provided further insight into the events of that day, with many questioning the justification of the police's response.

What was already established

The protests were fuelled by widespread discontent with political corruption, particularly among the youth. The initial response from law enforcement was characterised by the use of non-lethal measures, which subsequently escalated to the use of live ammunition following the police's assessment of the situation as increasingly dangerous.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the direct impact on UK households may be limited, the political instability in Nepal could affect international perceptions and relationships, particularly in terms of trade and diplomatic engagement. Additionally, the events may resonate with the UK’s own struggles with youth disenfranchisement and political protests.

Businesses and jobs

The unrest could deter foreign investment in Nepal, affecting local businesses and job creation. The political climate is crucial for economic stability, and ongoing protests may lead to increased caution among international investors and businesses operating in the region.

Policy and regulation

The response to the protests and the subsequent inquiry could influence international human rights policies and discussions about police conduct. As the UK positions itself on global human rights issues, developments in Nepal may prompt discussions on the appropriateness of policing methods in democratic contexts.

Numbers that matter

• 19: Number of fatalities reported on 8 September, including Shreeyam Chaulagain.
• 30,000: Estimated number of protesters at the demonstration, significantly higher than police expectations.
• 77: Total number of fatalities reported during the subsequent unrest following the protests.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Gen Z: Refers to the generation born between the mid-to-late 1990s and the early 2010s, known for their proficiency with technology and social media.
• Curfew: A regulation requiring people to remain indoors during designated hours, often imposed during civil unrest or emergencies.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As public inquiry findings are anticipated, the immediate focus will be on accountability for the police actions during the protests. Key political figures may also face pressure as public sentiment shifts.

Medium term (1–6 months)

With elections approaching, political parties will likely need to address the public's concerns about corruption and police violence. This could reshape party platforms and influence voter behaviour.

Signals to watch

• Outcomes from the public inquiry and any subsequent legal actions against police officials.
• Public sentiment and mobilisations regarding the upcoming elections.
• International responses and diplomatic engagements concerning human rights and governance in Nepal.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about developments in the public inquiry.
• Engage with community groups advocating for transparency and accountability.

Don’t

• Ignore the implications of political unrest on regional stability.
• Dismiss the voices and concerns of young activists.

Checklist

• Monitor news related to the public inquiry and police accountability.
• Follow social media discussions around the upcoming elections in Nepal.
• Consider the broader implications of youth activism in political contexts.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As the investigation unfolds, there are significant risks regarding the potential for misinformation and misinterpretation of events. The political climate is fluid, and the ongoing inquiry may lead to unexpected developments. Additionally, the role of organised groups in the protests and subsequent violence remains contested, with no definitive evidence to support claims of external infiltration.

Bottom line

The events of 8 September 2022 have starkly highlighted the fragility of Nepal's democracy and the urgent need for accountability in the face of police violence. As the country prepares for elections, the unresolved tensions surrounding these events will undoubtedly shape the political landscape and the future of governance in Nepal.

FAQs

What happened during the protests in Nepal on 8 September 2022?

The protests were marked by significant unrest, resulting in the deaths of 19 individuals, including a teenager. The former police chief allegedly ordered the use of lethal force against unarmed protesters.

What is the current status of the public inquiry?

The public inquiry into the events of 8 September is ongoing, with no outcomes reported yet. Families of the victims are awaiting justice.

How have the protests affected Nepal's political landscape?

The protests led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the collapse of the government, indicating a critical juncture in Nepal's political environment.