Nepal Reels as Protests Erupt Over Elite Privilege, Focusing on Jaiveer Singh Deuba
Kathmandu, Nepal – Nationwide protests escalated dramatically on September 9, 2025, with demonstrators targeting government buildings, hotels, and even Parliament, fueled by widespread anger over perceived inequality and the influence of “nepo kids” – the children of Nepal’s political elite. At the center of the unrest is Jaiveer Singh Deuba, son of former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, and his lifestyle, which has become a potent symbol of the disconnect between the ruling class and a generation facing economic hardship. The protests culminated in an attack on the Deuba residence, prompting police to take sher Bahadur and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba, into protective custody.
The #NepoKids campaign in Nepal has evolved from a social media trend into a powerful indictment of systemic inequality, resonating deeply with Gen Z Nepalis grappling with soaring inflation, joblessness, and food shortages. While grievances include chronic power cuts, stagnant wages, and unfulfilled promises of reform, the perceived flaunting of wealth by the children of politicians abroad has ignited a national firestorm. The unrest signals a potential turning point in Nepali politics, with the “nepo baby” phenomenon acting as a catalyst for broader demands for systemic change.
Jaiveer Singh Deuba’s prominence in the controversy stems from his father’s significant political legacy and his wife’s celebrity status. For many young Nepalis,the couple embodies a system perceived as rigged against them. Other names like Shrinkhala Khatiwada, Smita Dahal, and Saugat Thapa have also become focal points of criticism, but Jaiveer’s position has amplified the outrage.
The protests reflect a growing frustration among Nepali youth, raised with expectations of transparency and amplified by social media, who are witnessing a stark contrast between the struggles of everyday life and the opulent lifestyles of the politically connected. The September 9th escalation – including the burning of government offices and the attack on the Deuba residence - represents an unprecedented challenge to the established political order and raises questions about the future stability of the nation. The situation remains volatile as authorities attempt to quell the unrest and address the underlying issues driving the protests.