The political drama that unfolded in Nepal the other day, where large-scale youth-led riots compelled the Prime Minister to step down, underscores a reality that South Asian regimes can no longer afford to ignore: the growing assertiveness of the region’s restless youth. What began in Kathmandu as sporadic demonstrations over unemployment, inflation, and allegations of corruption soon transformed into a formidable force that paralysed governance. The resignation of Nepal’s premier was not merely a capitulation to street pressure but an acknowledgement that young citizens, once considered politically dormant, have emerged as a decisive political actor in that country.

The recent developments in Nepal closely mirror what transpired in Bangladesh last year when students and unemployed youth spearheaded nationwide protests against the long-standing premiership of Sheikh Hasina. Initially triggered by grievances over government control of educational institutions, spiralling food costs and perceptions of personalist authoritarianism, the movement snowballed into a popular uprising. The relentless mobilisation ─ marked by both peaceful marches and violent confrontations ─ ultimately led to Hasina’s dramatic exit after........

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