Arpit Sharma, the son of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) politician Vikas Sharma and a figure widely recognized for his pro-leftist online commentary, has come under fire for praising the recent wave of violent protests in Nepal and encouraging Indian youth to emulate the uprising.
His remarks follow a period of severe unrest in Nepal, where anti-corruption demonstrations originally led by the country’s youth escalated into widespread violence. Over the span of two days, the country witnessed a complete breakdown of public order, with government buildings attacked, politicians assaulted, and extensive property damage reported. The protests have so far claimed at least 22 lives and left more than 300 people injured.
Sharma shared a video on platform X (formerly Twitter), applauding what he described as the “bold and fearless” actions of Nepal’s Gen Z protestors. He spoke admiringly of their willingness to directly confront the state, destroy government property, and physically target political leaders. In a troubling escalation, Sharma criticized Indian youth for what he sees as their reluctance to take similar action against the Indian government.
Did anyone ask for Proof? pic.twitter.com/qEss55I77w
— Facts (@BefittingFacts) April 2, 2025
Arpit Sharma, is openly asking the youth of the country to create a Nepal-like situation in India.
Requesting @theicai to take strict action and cancel his license/CA degree for such anti-national provocation. pic.twitter.com/4Nx2mMpLVp
— BALA (@erbmjha) September 10, 2025
In the same video, Sharma encouraged young Indians to draw “inspiration” from Nepal’s violent upheaval. He referenced the debunked “vote theft” narrative popularized by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, implying it could serve as a foundation for nationwide agitation. According to Sharma, India’s 600 million-strong youth electorate has the power to “shake the foundations of power” if mobilized properly.
His father, Vikas Sharma, ran unsuccessfully as an AAP candidate in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections, further linking the controversy to the party’s broader political affiliations.
Nepal in Crisis: Violence and Political Fallout
The unrest in Nepal was triggered by a government-imposed social media blackout, which protestors claimed was an attempt to suppress dissent. The movement initially framed as a youth-led campaign against corruption rapidly devolved into chaos.
Rioters torched multiple government offices, party headquarters, and even the homes of senior officials. One of the most tragic incidents occurred when the wife of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal died from injuries sustained in a fire allegedly set by demonstrators. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also resigned after protestors set his residence ablaze.
The Nepalese Army was eventually deployed to restore order, imposing strict curfews in several districts and forcibly dispersing crowds. Despite the restoration of relative calm, the damage both physical and political has been profound.
Backlash and Concerns Over Sharma’s Remarks
Arpit Sharma’s comments have ignited widespread criticism online, with many calling his statements irresponsible and inflammatory. Critics argue that glorifying political violence in a neighbouring country and calling for similar actions in India undermines democratic norms and encourages extremism.
Observers have also pointed to the potential consequences of such rhetoric, especially in a politically charged environment. As India prepares for upcoming elections, the amplification of violent imagery and anti-state sentiments could further deepen divisions.
Sharma has not responded publicly to the backlash as of now. Neither the Aam Aadmi Party nor the Congress has issued an official statement regarding his remarks.
(With Inputs From Organiser)
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