Nepal may see a wave of protests after the Tihar and Chhath festivals. Political instability is rising, and several groups are preparing actions that could affect the streets and even the stock market. Analysts warn that a second major public movement could further complicate the country’s political and economic situation.
Royalist groups plan one of their largest protests yet after Chhath. Durga Prasai, coordinator of the “Protect Nation, Religion, Culture, and Citizens” campaign, announced that the country could shut down from Mechi in the east to Mahakali in the west. He called on citizens to stock essential goods like fuel, rice, lentils, and cooking oil. Prasai stated the movement will continue until the current constitution is canceled and a Vedic Hindu monarchy is established.
Security experts are taking these warnings seriously. Royalist groups have formed committees and command structures to organize their protests. Kathmandu is expected to be the first target, followed by other major cities. The government has prepared security strategies to handle potential disruptions.
The Communist Party of Nepal (UML), led by former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, is also preparing street actions after Chhath. They aim to push for the reinstatement of parliament, supported by the Nepali Congress and the Maoist Center. The combined pressure from royalists and UML could heighten political instability, and younger activist groups may also join, creating a tense and unpredictable situation.
Amid these political protests, stock market investors are planning their own demonstrations. Around seven million investors in Nepal are demanding reforms in the capital market. Some groups have already started campaigns to bring investors to Kathmandu. If all investor groups participate, their movement could have a stronger impact than the political protests.
After Tihar and Chhath, Nepal may experience nationwide protests that affect both politics and the economy. From streets to the stock market, disruptions are possible. Security agencies are preparing for potential unrest, but the scale and intensity of these movements will only become clear after the festivals.
