Nepal's Balen Shah Government Faces Farmers' Protests Amidst Tomato Price Crisis

Protests Erupt Over Tomato Prices

Kathmandu: The government led by Balen Shah in Nepal is currently grappling with protests from farmers, primarily due to a drastic decline in tomato prices. Farmers have accused the Shah administration of neglecting their needs by not providing adequate subsidies and instead favoring import policies. This has led to a situation where domestic agriculture is overlooked, prompting farmers to take to the streets.

According to reports from the Kathmandu Post, the Kalimati Fruit and Vegetable Market Development Board revealed that the wholesale price for small, locally grown tomatoes has plummeted to between Rs 8 and Rs 12 per kilogram, with an average price of Rs 9.50 per kg. In contrast, tomatoes cultivated using tunnel farming technology are priced at an average of Rs 14.60 per kg, while the average wholesale price for Nepali tomatoes stands at Rs 38.75 per kg.

Last month, farmers also protested against the government regarding the proposed alignment of the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh Fast Track Expressway, as reported by various news sources. This protest coincided with National Paddy Day. Additionally, the Balen Shah government is facing backlash for its decision to evict squatters without providing a resettlement plan. Recently, hundreds of young individuals demonstrated in Kathmandu, organized by the Joint National Squatters Front, demanding an end to unlawful arrests and adequate housing for those displaced.

The protests were further fueled by the tragic death of 25-year-old Pathao rider Ganesh Nepali. The incident occurred outside Kathmandu's Department of Passports, where municipal police confronted Nepali over a parking violation. Following a dispute, police immobilized his motorcycle and issued a fine. Disturbingly, CCTV footage captured Nepali returning later, dousing himself in petrol and igniting himself as a tow truck approached. He later succumbed to his injuries.

Since coming to power after the 2025 Gen Z-led protests that resulted in the fall of the KP Sharma Oli government, Balen Shah has relied heavily on youth support, with his Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) achieving a near two-thirds majority in Parliament.