History bears witness to numerous popular uprisings triggered by the negligence, corruption, and extravagance of rulers, especially when the masses are deprived of basic necessities. These movements often result in regime change. Among the most prominent are the American Revolution, the French Revolution, the Russian Revolution, and the Revolutions of 1989 that led to the collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe.

Other significant uprisings include the Haitian Revolution, the Chinese Communist Revolution, the Iranian Revolution, and the Arab Spring. In recent years, popular uprisings have also occurred in India's neighbouring countries—Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal—leading to the fall of governments. Notably, these movements were primarily led by young people under the age of 30—commonly referred to as Gen Z.

One of the key purposes of studying history is to learn from past mistakes and failures. Unfortunately, political leaders around the world often seem incapable of doing so, frequently repeating the errors of the past. Leaders in Nepal, for instance, should have drawn lessons from the recent experiences of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Many in power mistakenly believe they can suppress dissent through brute force or repression.

In Nepal, while the immediate trigger for the youth-led protests was the government's ban on 26 social media platforms—including WhatsApp, Instagram, X, and YouTube—deep-rooted frustration had been brewing for years. The youth were increasingly disillusioned by deteriorating public services, particularly in health and education, as well as widespread corruption and nepotism. Media reports highlighted key grievances: soaring unemployment, inadequate wages, growing inequality, and the opulent lifestyles of political elites and their families.

What Can India and Other Countries Learn?
1. Acknowledge the Power of Youth
The uprisings in Bangladesh and Nepal underscore the transformative power of youth. They are not merely the leaders of tomorrow—they are the active change-makers of today. No government can afford to ignore the discontent of its youth, which can erupt like a volcano when least expected.

In India, about 65% of the population is under the age of 35, with the 15–29 age group comprising around 27.3% of the population. This youth bulge offers a demographic dividend that could drive economic growth—but only if their needs are addressed. Ignoring their grievances can have serious consequences. If government policies, institutions, or political processes disregard the aspirations of young people, the backlash could be both sudden and intense.

2. Youth Demand Transparency and Accountability
Corrupt or authoritarian governments often attempt to obscure the truth. However, even if day-to-day governance appears to function, if a regime is perceived as unjust or favouring a privileged few, public tolerance will eventually erode.

India must work to strengthen its institutions—such as audit bodies, courts, and anti-corruption agencies—and ensure that violations lead to visible and enforceable consequences. The perception that investigative agencies are politically motivated only fuels public distrust. For example, Trinamool Congress leader Saket Gokhale asserted on May 3, 2025, that 98% of the Enforcement Directorate's cases against politicians were targeted at opposition leaders.

Further, it has become a pattern that when politicians facing corruption probes switch allegiance to the ruling BJP, their cases are dropped or no longer pursued. For instance, investigations against NCP leader Ajit Pawar were shelved after he formed an alliance with the BJP. According to The Indian Express (April 4, 2024), since 2014, 25 opposition leaders under investigation have crossed over to the BJP, and 23 of them have received reprieve. This has led critics to dub the BJP a political "washing machine." Anti-corruption efforts will remain hollow unless they are applied impartially, regardless of political affiliation.

3. Protect Free expression and Digital Rights
Governments must handle speech regulation and social media restrictions with caution. Blanket bans or censorship—often justified in the name of security or combating misinformation—can provoke backlash, particularly among the digitally savvy youth who rely on these platforms for expression and community.

As reported by India Today on February 25, 2025, India recorded 84 internet shutdowns in 2024, the highest among democratic nations. Although some regulation is necessary to protect citizens' rights, excessive control over digital platforms—especially when used to silence dissent or conceal corruption—can lead to unrest, as seen in Nepal.

4. Ensure Meaningful Political Inclusion of Youth
Young people must be adequately represented in political parties, governance structures, and policymaking institutions. The average age of Members of Parliament in the 18th Lok Sabha is 56, the highest in Indian history. This indicates a significant underrepresentation of youth in the lawmaking process.

Good governance requires a balance between the passion, energy, and innovation of youth and the experience and wisdom of senior leaders. In democracies dominated by older politicians, there is often a disconnect between the expectations of young people and the delivery of political promises. Mechanisms must be established to systematically integrate youth perspectives into policymaking.

5. Address Structural Economic Issues
While rising unemployment and growing inequality affect all demographics, youth are particularly vulnerable and likely to protest. The post-1990s wave of globalisation improved living standards across many developing countries, including India. However, it also dramatically increased economic disparities.

The service sector's growth—driven by the information and communications technology revolution—primarily benefited the highly skilled. At the same time, neglect of the manufacturing sector, especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and the lack of quality education have contributed significantly to youth unemployment in India.
Critics argue that economic policies favouring large corporations have worsened inequality. According to the World Inequality Database, in 2022–23, the top 1% of Indians controlled 22.6% of the national income and 40.1% of the wealth—a concentration of wealth likened to a new "Billionaire Raj."

India's youth unemployment rate (ages 15–29) was 10.2% in 2023–24, still high despite a slight decline. Of particular concern is the rising unemployment among graduates. Economists note that while India's economy is growing, it is not generating enough jobs, especially formal or skilled employment. Increasing contractual work and informal labour contribute to widespread job insecurity.

Solutions include creating quality employment opportunities through skill development, bridging the rural-urban divide, supporting entrepreneurship and start-ups, and improving access to capital for young people.

6. Undertake Deep Institutional Reforms
The demands raised during Nepal's protests extended beyond political change—they called for reforms in justice, education, healthcare, and communication. India faces similar systemic issues.

Mere announcements of reform are insufficient; implementation must be effective and visible. For instance, with over 53.9 million court cases pending in India as of August 2025, justice delayed has become justice denied.

Education quality, healthcare access, judicial efficiency, and basic infrastructure all need continuous reform to maintain public trust and social stability.

The Gen Z uprising in Nepal is not an isolated incident—it reflects a broader pattern across South Asia and beyond. Today's youth, particularly those connected through digital platforms, are increasingly disillusioned with politics, the justice system, and economic opportunities. When governments suppress or ignore these aspirations, unrest is inevitable.

For India, the Nepal experience serves as both a warning and an opportunity. Youth discontent, if left unaddressed, will not remain dormant—it will erupt. However, with proactive leadership, meaningful inclusion, transparency, and accountability, India can harness the energy of its youth for national development, strengthening democracy rather than weakening it.