Nepal’s GenZ Protests Ignite Chaos, UP Borders on High Alert
By HT News Desk | Updated: September 10, 2025, 11:37 AM IST
As Nepal grapples with fiery youth-led protests, Uttar Pradesh has tightened security along its border with the Himalayan nation. The state government has placed police forces on 24/7 high alert across all seven districts sharing the border, following violent clashes in Kathmandu and other Nepalese cities where protesters set government buildings on fire.
A protester can be seen brandishing a firearm outside the Singha Durbar palace complex in Kathmandu amid the intense unrest. (AFP)
Uttar Pradesh’s Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Krishna has ordered round-the-clock monitoring, increased patrolling, and deployment of extra police forces in Shravasti, Balrampur, Bahraich, Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, Siddharthnagar, and Maharajganj.
To assist Indian citizens stranded in Nepal during these turbulent times, a special control room has been set up at the Police Headquarters in Lucknow. Three helpline numbers, including one WhatsApp line, are operational 24/7: 0522-2390257, 0522-2724010, and 9454401674.
“The UP Police is working tirelessly to maintain law and order and support Indian nationals stuck in Nepal,” said Amitabh Yash, Additional Director General (Law & Order).
While the Indo-Nepal border remains open, vigilance has been stepped up. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), responsible for securing the porous border, has intensified patrols to prevent any anti-social elements from crossing over. Shashi Lal Bhushan Sushil, Commissioner of the Devipatan division, has instructed district magistrates to coordinate closely with police and SSB officials.
Nepal in Turmoil
The alert comes as Nepal faces escalating violence. Furious protesters in Kathmandu and other cities have stormed and set fire to key government buildings, including the Parliament, the President’s office at Shital Niwas, and homes of senior leaders. Local reports confirm at least 19 people have died and over 500 have been injured in clashes and police firing.
On Tuesday, Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Paudel appealed for peace, urging protesters to choose dialogue over destruction. “Democracy allows citizens’ demands to be addressed through talks and negotiation,” he said, according to The Himalayan Times.
The unrest erupted after the Nepalese government banned 26 major social media platforms—like WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube—citing tax revenue and cybersecurity concerns. Though the ban was later lifted, it triggered widespread outrage, with young protesters—dubbed the “GenZ” movement—demanding an end to corruption and improved governance.
The protests have spread to border towns like Nepalgunj, where schools and shops have remained closed for two days. Demonstrators have blocked roads with burning tires and surrounded government offices.
The Impact of GenZ Fury
Curfews are now in place in cities like Kathmandu and Dang. The Nepal Army, which took over security operations from 10 PM Tuesday, has urged protesters to remain calm and protect public and private property.
Chaos at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu led to flight cancellations by major airlines including Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo after protesters tried to storm the facility.
With tensions running high and no clear end to the unrest, Uttar Pradesh is preparing for any spillover effects, keeping its borders under strict watch while offering support to those caught in the crisis.
