16th September 2025, Kathmandu
In a concerning incident that highlights the rising tensions surrounding Nepal’s recent youth-led protests, a man was attacked with a kukri in Hetauda on Monday evening.
Hetauda Attack Man Targeted
The victim, identified as Prem Ghimire, 34, from Makwanpurgadhi Rural Municipality-5, was targeted in front of the Forestry Gate in Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City-10.
According to DSP Shamu Aryal, spokesperson for the Makwanpur District Police Office, Ghimire is in stable condition but has been referred to Bharatpur for advanced medical treatment.
Allegations of Political Motivation
While the police have not yet identified or confirmed the motive behind the attack, local residents have linked the assault to the victim’s alleged involvement in the “Gen Z movement.” This anti-corruption movement, largely driven by young Nepalis, has been a central point of political and social discourse across the country.
Sources on the ground claim that a dispute arose over Ghimire’s active participation in the protests. Compounding the gravity of the situation, some locals have alleged that the attacker is affiliated with major political parties, including the CPN-UML, Nepali Congress, and Maoist Centre.
Broader Context: The Gen Z Movement in Nepal
This incident in Hetauda is not an isolated event but rather a symptom of the volatile political climate in Nepal. The Gen Z movement, which gained momentum following a government ban on several social media platforms, has evolved into a nationwide protest against systemic corruption, nepotism, and political mismanagement. The movement, which has been described as largely leaderless and organic, has rattled the country’s traditional political establishment.
Anti-Corruption Drive: At its core, the protests are a demand for good governance and an end to corruption, which many young people see as the root cause of high unemployment and economic stagnation.
Political Disillusionment: A key feature of the movement is the widespread disillusionment with the established political parties. Protesters often chant slogans against what they view as a corrupt and self-serving political class.
Violent Clashes: The protests have, at times, turned violent, with clashes reported between demonstrators and security forces. Such incidents have led to casualties and a state of heightened tension.
Police Investigation Underway
The Makwanpur police have stated that they are actively searching for the perpetrator and have intensified their investigation to identify the individual or group responsible for the assault. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by activists and citizens who participate in political and social movements.
The attack on Prem Ghimire underscores the deep divisions and potential for violence that can arise from Nepal’s ongoing political upheaval.
As the police continue their search for the culprits, the incident has renewed concerns about the safety of those involved in the Gen Z movement and the need for a peaceful resolution to the country’s political crisis.
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