Sit-in Protest Begins Over Concerns of Country Heading Towards Authoritarianism
March 13, Kathmandu – Lawyers, civil society leaders, and student representatives have joined a sit-in protest, expressing concerns that the country is veering towards authoritarianism. Organized by the Progressive Transformation Campaign, the event took place at L Campus in Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, where the participants voiced strong opposition to the government’s planned restrictions on student organizations within educational institutions. They criticized the government’s move as unconstitutional and violating international human rights treaties, warning of emerging signs of fascism in the country and pledging to intensify their struggle.
The government introduced 100 points for administrative reform, including a proposal to dissolve student organizations. Advocates, civil society figures, and student leaders have condemned this step as a serious attack on the fundamental rights guaranteed by democracy and the constitution. Lawyer Anjita Khanal, analyst Yug Pathak, and various student leaders have labeled the government’s decision as reflecting a fascist character. Khanal described the government’s intention to abolish student organizations as unconstitutional and contrary to international human rights agreements.
Recalling Article 17 of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to establish organizations and express opinions freely, Khanal pledged to strongly oppose the government’s move. She also raised questions regarding the Prime Minister’s attire. Noting that while the Prime Minister wore the traditional daura-suruwal at a Nepalese Army event, he appeared in a T-shirt at the House of Representatives session, Khanal expressed disapproval. “Isn’t the House of Representatives a place where national identity should be reflected? Shouldn’t the Prime Minister wear national attire there?” she asked. “What is our perspective towards Balendra Shah?”
Khanal analyzed that the country’s threat of sliding into authoritarianism stems from the inability to accommodate multi-party politics and protect diverse ideas. Writer and analyst Yug Pathak highlighted clear signs of fascism emerging in Nepali politics, describing the nation as trapped in a severe ideological crisis. Linking the Prime Minister Shah’s style, the rise of new political parties, and the debate over abolishing student organizations, he shared his view: “Intellectuals are captivated by Balendra’s glasses, clothing, and mannerisms, but fascist signs are hidden within this discourse. Globally, the primary tactic of fascists is to dissolve people’s organizations. Political parties have ideological lines that decide the direction of society. Without student organizations, how can ideological deliberation occur?”
Viraj Thapa, leader of a student organization affiliated with the Communist Party of Nepal, compared the government’s preparations to ban student organizations and trade unions to the “Doctrine of the Poison Tree.” He argued that student organizations are especially vital for voiceless and marginalized communities of students rather than the elite class. According to Thapa, the main three student organizations have already implemented age limits of 32, and the Free Student Union (FSU) enforces a 28-year age limit. This has ended tendencies of fundraising and political showmanship, creating an environment where genuine students can take leadership roles.
Narendra BK, leader of a student organization close to the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) led by Netra Bikram Chand, contended that the root of all problems in the educational sector lies not in student organizations but in the government’s and state’s attitudes. While Article 31 of the Constitution guarantees free and compulsory education, he pointed out the irony that a proper Education Act has yet to be enacted, and where amendments have been made, they cater to the interests of mafias. He urged attention toward addressing these concerns.