A government-imposed social media ban has triggered widespread youth-led protests in Nepal, leaving at least 19 people dead and over 100 injured amid violent clashes with police.
The ban, which restricted access to platforms like Facebook and TikTok, sparked immediate backlash, especially among Nepal’s Gen Z — who make up a majority of the country’s internet users. Protesters, many wearing school and college uniforms, took to the streets with slogans like “Unban Social Media” and “Shut Down Corruption, Not the Internet.”
What began as peaceful demonstrations escalated on Monday when protesters attempted to breach the parliament gates in Kathmandu. Police responded with tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets. An ambulance was set on fire, and clashes left dozens hospitalized, including 28 police personnel.
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The government claims the ban aims to curb misinformation, hate speech, and online fraud. However, critics argue it’s an attempt to suppress dissent and avoid accountability.
“These protests are a wake-up call,” said a young demonstrator. “We’re not just angry about the internet — we’re angry about corruption, joblessness, and being ignored.”
Protests also erupted in cities like Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Itahari, where two additional deaths were reported. A curfew has been imposed in key government areas, and the army was deployed to control the unrest.
Nepal’s youth, many of whom seek opportunities abroad due to lack of jobs at home, say the government’s actions reflect deeper issues of mismanagement and mistrust.
