Nepal Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah, who became popular with the support of Gen Z voters, is now facing one of the biggest protests since taking office. Thousands of people, many of them young, have gathered on the streets of Kathmandu, accusing his government of not caring about the problems of ordinary people.
The protests started after the death of a ride-hailing driver, but they soon became much bigger. People are now raising their voices against several government decisions, including the eviction of poor families living along riverbanks. Opposition leaders have also criticised the government, with some even calling for Balen Shah to resign.
Why are people protesting against Balen Shah?
The protests began after Ganesh Nepali, a 25-year-old ride-sharing driver, set himself on fire following an argument with Kathmandu Metropolitan Police over a parking dispute.
According to reports, municipal officers asked him to remove his motorcycle from a no-parking zone. The argument continued for nearly two hours before officials wheel-locked his bike and prepared to tow it away. CCTV footage later showed Ganesh returning with petrol taken from his motorcycle, pouring it on himself and setting himself on fire.
He suffered severe burns and died the next day at Kathmandu’s Bir Hospital.
His death shocked the country and quickly became a symbol of growing frustration among young people who believe ordinary citizens are being treated unfairly by the authorities.
यसरी पक्राउ परेका थिए नेकपाका नेता कीर्तिपुर होल्डिङ सेन्टरबाट #squatters #sukumbasi #NepalPolitics #nepalnews Voxpop Nepal
— Bhugol Park (@BhugolPark) July 12, 2026
credit: social media pic.twitter.com/ZTr2LJcOvW
Why did Ganesh Nepali’s death trigger such a big reaction?
Many protesters say Ganesh Nepali’s death was not just about a parking fine.
Ride-hailing drivers have complained for months about repeated fines, strict parking enforcement and the lack of legal protection while working. According to reports, Ganesh had earlier told his family that he was repeatedly being fined while trying to earn a living.
His death has raised larger questions about how government officials deal with workers and whether enough support exists for people facing financial and mental stress.
Within days of the incident, two more people reportedly attempted self-immolation, raising concerns about copycat incidents.
Following the death of 25-year-old Ganesh Nepali, a massive protest has broken out inside Bir Hospital. Demonstrators are demanding accountability from the government, calling for answers and action in the wake of the tragic incident.#genznepal #BirHospital #JusticeForGanesh pic.twitter.com/nujA2ox4hb
— Genz Nepal (@thegenznepal) July 10, 2026
What are the key demands of the protesters?
The demonstrations are now about much more than one incident.
The protesters are demanding:
- A fair and independent investigation into Ganesh Nepali’s death.
- Strict action against officials involved in the incident.
- Better protection and fair treatment for ride-hailing drivers.
- An end to what they call heavy-handed policing and administrative harassment.
- Rehabilitation for families displaced during eviction drives.
- Release of detained activists.
- Accountability from Prime Minister Balen Shah, with some groups demanding his resignation.
Several protesters carried placards reading, “Down with the fascist government,” “Stop traffic terror,” and “Provide justice to the victim.”
Why are squatters also protesting?
Another major reason behind the protests is the government’s drive to clear informal settlements built along Kathmandu’s rivers.
Balen Shah has long argued that these settlements need to be removed to protect rivers and improve the city. However, many families say they have been forced out without proper rehabilitation.
According to reports, thousands of families have lost their homes during the eviction drive, while only a small number have been moved to temporary shelters. Many say they have nowhere else to go.
Human rights activists and civil society groups have criticised the government, saying evictions should not happen without proper resettlement.
Opposition attacks Balen Shah in Parliament
The issue has also reached Nepal’s Parliament. Opposition lawmakers accused the government of failing to protect citizens and mishandling the incident.
One MP told Balen Shah to “take off his dark glasses” and face the people, while others questioned whether the government had become disconnected from ordinary citizens.
Some lawmakers even called on the Prime Minister to resign over the growing public anger.
How has the government responded?
The Nepal government has announced a high-level investigation into Ganesh Nepali’s death.
Home Minister Sudan Gurung said three municipal police personnel involved in the incident have been detained for questioning. The government has also formed a five-member committee to investigate what happened.
However, Prime Minister Balen Shah has not publicly commented on the protests or the growing criticism.
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First published on: Jul 14, 2026 04:20 PM IST
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About the Author
Navya Dubey
Navya Dubey is a Sub-Editor at News 24 with two years of experience in journalism. Passionate about storytelling and reporting, she covers a wide range of topics including politics, crime, general news, and breaking stories. She also takes a keen interest in trending and viral content, bringing readers engaging and thought-provoking stories that capture public interest.
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