What Can Indians Learn from the Crisis in Nepal and the Rise of Chinese Influence?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Chinese influence in Nepal is growing while India remains passive.
- There is a pressing need for India to address unemployment and corruption.
- The struggles of GenZ in Nepal reflect a broader demand for democratic integrity.
- Countries in South Asia share a common theme of political unrest.
- Lessons from Nepal's turmoil can guide India's approach to governance.
Mumbai, Sep 10 (NationPress) Shiv Sena(UBT) remarked that the unrest in Nepal stems from hunger, unemployment, and corrupt governance, exacerbated by Chinese influence. Meanwhile, India is maintaining a neutral stance.
In its publication 'Saamana', the party emphasized that the discontent among GenZ in Nepal signifies their resistance to dictatorship, corruption, and the arbitrary actions of their government, serving as a crucial lesson for India amid escalating unemployment, religious politics, and the deterioration of democratic institutions.
“Historically, Nepal's leaders would proclaim, 'India stands with us. India is our elder brother.' Today, however, China has supplanted India, which is now an observer as discontent simmers in Nepal. The unrest is fueled by hunger and unemployment. India must take heed. Job opportunities in India have dwindled, forcing nearly 80 crore citizens to rely on meager government rations. The Modi-Shah administration is winning elections at the expense of democracy’s core values. The pillars of democracy are visibly crumbling, and the politics of religion and caste have reached alarming levels. Such disorders pose significant risks to the nation,” the editorial asserted.
The Thackeray faction highlighted the historical camaraderie of nations like Nepal and Bhutan with India. The Prime Minister of Nepal traditionally visited India first after any new government formation. However, this dynamic has dramatically shifted, as numerous Chinese teachers now instruct the Chinese language in Nepal. The color of Nepal, once vibrant with saffron, is now tinged with red due to China's influence,” the editorial reported.
Uddhav Thackeray's party further suggested that Nepal's accusations regarding the illegal occupation of Indian territory reflect India's diminishing global standing and ineffective foreign policy, a serious concern.
“Many Nepalese work in India, yet China now exercises full control over Nepal, whose economy increasingly relies on China's support. Previously, nations like Nepal and Bhutan were steadfast allies of India. Today, the Nepalese Prime Minister prioritizes visits to China and subsequently to Pakistan. This marks a significant failure of India's foreign policy,” the editorial stated.
According to the editorial, revolts have erupted in nearly every neighboring country of India, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The citizens of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh overthrew their governments due to overwhelming corruption. When the desire for self-respect ignites within people, it can quickly lead to upheaval, regardless of military might.
“In Nepal, there exists a climate of hunger, fear, and corruption, with a political framework incapable of addressing these issues. The parliament fails to serve the populace. In such dire circumstances, the people of Nepal are willing to sacrifice for liberation from dictatorship. Thousands have taken to the streets, resulting in government violence. The Nepalese army eventually had to intervene to quell the unrest.
“Today, Nepal is increasingly under Chinese control and frequently expresses grievances against India. Prime Minister Oli attended the Shanghai Conference in China last week, engaging with prominent leaders like Putin. Upon his return, he faced public backlash. What led to this reaction?” questioned the editorial.
“The streets of Kathmandu are stained with the blood of revolutionary youth, but will this resolve the people's challenges? The citizens of India have much to learn from the unfolding events in Nepal,” the party concluded in the editorial.