Mar 16, Kathmandu - A government study has shown that the main reason for the 'Gen-Z' protests on Bhadra 22 and 23 is the wide economic gap between the rich and the poor in Nepal. According to a special study conducted by the Ministry of Finance, it has been concluded that economically backward communities and low-income youths have joined the protests because they do not see their future as secure.

According to the study report, the involvement of low-income groups in the vandalism and looting of department stores, hotels and industrial establishments during the protests has confirmed how deep the anger over economic inequality is in society. The task force said that to reduce such a gap, it has suggested that the government bring low-income groups into the mainstream of development.

The current low wages and economic instability are seen as other major problems in Nepal. The report says, "The current wages make it impossible for the Gen-Z generation to sustain a normal lifestyle. This generation has been drawn towards rebellion because it is not possible to build a house or buy a normal vehicle with an honest lifetime of earnings." The comparison between the high lifestyle of their friends abroad and the miserable conditions of those working in their home country has also increased dissatisfaction among the youth, and it has been suggested that wage rates should be increased to address this.

The report states that the Gen-G generation, which has closely observed the compulsion of millions of youth to go abroad due to lack of employment in their home country, sees its future in Nepal as bleak. It has been concluded that cumbersome paperwork for investment and entrepreneurship, bribery, and a cumbersome bureaucracy have slowed down economic activity. The arson at land revenue, tax, license, and municipal offices has been taken as a symbol of the same public anger towards the administration. It has been suggested that the government should now implement a fully digital and transparent single-door system.

The report points out that there are not only economic but also serious social and political reasons behind the movement. The luxurious lifestyle of the political leadership and their children, the favoritism of only those with access to power, and political appointments based on nepotism have created hatred for the system itself among the youth. In addition, the lack of employment-oriented education and the lack of jobs according to qualifications have also added fuel to the fire of the movement.

The study task force has also warned that such movements may become even stronger in the future if the government does not immediately address these economic and social issues.