Nepal Students, The Force Behind Balen Shah's Rise, Now Want Him To Resign As PM; Here's Why

Last Updated:June 03, 2026, 13:51 IST

The immediate controversy stems from remarks Shah made in Parliament regarding the long-running Nepal-India border dispute involving Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura.

Just a few months after helping create the political wave that swept Nepal Prime Minister Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah to power, several student organisations have turned against him, demanding not only an apology but also his resignation.

The dramatic turnaround highlights how the very constituency that fuelled Shah’s meteoric rise – young voters and student activists frustrated with Nepal’s traditional political class – now feels betrayed by some of his recent decisions and statements.

Read More: ‘Nepal Encroached Indian Territory’: Massive Row Over Balen Shah’s Maiden Address In Parliament

The Students Behind Balen Shah’s Rise

Balen Shah’s rise from Kathmandu mayor to Nepal’s youngest prime minister was powered largely by a youth movement that emerged from widespread frustration with corruption, political instability and the dominance of traditional parties. His anti-establishment image, social media appeal and promise of systemic reforms resonated strongly with students and first-time voters. Political observers widely viewed the 2025-26 youth mobilisation as a key factor behind the landslide victory of Shah’s party in the 2026 elections.

For many young Nepalis, Shah represented a break from decades of conventional politics. Student groups, youth activists and Gen-Z voters became some of his most vocal supporters during the election campaign.

What Triggered The Backlash?

The immediate controversy stems from remarks Shah made in Parliament regarding the long-running Nepal-India border dispute involving Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura.

During his speech, Shah stated that Nepal had learned that “not only has India encroached on Nepal’s land, but Nepal has also encroached on Indian land in many places." He also suggested that countries such as the United Kingdom should help resolve historical aspects of the dispute because the issue traces its roots to colonial-era treaties.

The comments triggered a political storm in Nepal. Opposition lawmakers accused him of undermining Nepal’s longstanding territorial position. Parliament witnessed repeated disruptions, with legislators demanding that Shah withdraw his remarks, apologise and, in some cases, resign.

Why Are Student Organisations Angry?

The protests are not coming from a single group. A coalition of ten student organisations has publicly condemned Shah’s remarks. According to a joint statement, the organisations demanded that the prime minister immediately withdraw the comments and issue a public apology. They warned that nationwide protests would follow if he failed to do so.

The student coalition argued that the issue was not merely a verbal mistake but reflected what they described as a political mindset contrary to Nepal’s national interests.

Student organisations later staged demonstrations in Kathmandu under slogans focused on protecting Nepal’s sovereignty. Protesters accused Shah of making “anti-national" remarks and weakening Nepal’s claim over disputed territories.

One of the key demands from the protesting groups was that Shah should publicly retract his statement and apologise to the Nepali people.

A Deeper Rift Between Balen Shah And Student Groups

The border controversy is unfolding against the backdrop of already strained relations between Shah’s government and student organisations. Earlier this year, Shah’s administration moved to dissolve or restrict student organisations and student politics in educational institutions as part of a broader reform agenda. The move triggered widespread criticism from student bodies and eventually faced legal challenges. Nepal’s Supreme Court later stayed the government’s decision, dealing a major setback to Shah.

For many student leaders, the border remarks became the latest flashpoint in an increasingly tense relationship with a government they once enthusiastically supported.

The generation that saw Balen Shah as the face of political change is now among the loudest voices questioning his leadership. Student groups that once celebrated his rise are organising street protests, torch rallies and public demonstrations demanding accountability.

Whether the protests remain confined to student organisations or evolve into a broader political challenge will depend on how Shah responds in the coming days.

About the Author

Pragati Ratti

Pragati is a News Editor at news18.com. Having headed the Business and Viral sections, Pragati now ideates, writes and edits long-form features and articles on national and global affairs. She ensures...Read More

News explainers Nepal Students, The Force Behind Balen Shah's Rise, Now Want Him To Resign As PM; Here's Why

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