Nepal Ends Social Media Ban After Deadly Protests
In Nepal, a dramatic series of events has unfolded over the past few days, where anger on the streets forced the government to reverse its controversial decision to block dozens of social media platforms. What began as frustration over restricted online access turned into one of the deadliest protests the country has seen in recent years, leaving at least 19 people dead and more than a hundred injured.
The ban had been introduced just a week earlier, when authorities announced that 26 major platforms – including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp – would no longer be accessible in Nepal. Officials claimed the decision was made to curb fake news, hate speech, and online fraud. But for millions of young Nepalis, many of whom rely on these apps for education, work, and daily communication, it was seen as an attack on free expression. The outrage quickly escalated, especially among the younger generation, often described as "Gen Z," who felt that the ban symbolized a much deeper problem of corruption and authoritarianism in the government.
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On Monday, thousands of demonstrators stormed the streets of Kathmandu and even broke through barricades into the parliament complex. Some carried signs that read “Shut down corruption, not social media,” while others chanted slogans demanding accountability. Several protesters targeted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s residence in his hometown, throwing stones as a symbol of their anger. For many, the social media ban was only the spark – the real fuel was long-standing frustration with corruption, inequality, and what they believe is a widening gap between political elites and ordinary citizens.
As the protests intensified, the government responded with force. Police used water cannons, tear gas, batons, and eventually rubber bullets to try to disperse the crowds. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have alleged that live ammunition was also fired, contributing to the high death toll. Hospitals in Kathmandu reported treating dozens of people with gunshot wounds, and families gathered outside emergency wards waiting for news of their loved ones.
By late Monday night, the pressure on the government had reached a breaking point. In an emergency cabinet meeting, ministers decided to lift the ban on social media. The country’s Communications and Information Minister, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced that the platforms had been restored, saying the move was aimed at addressing the demands of young citizens. Prime Minister Oli later expressed sadness at the loss of life but blamed what he called “infiltration by vested interest groups” for the violence. At the same time, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned after heavy criticism over the use of force.
The protests have also fueled a growing “nepo kid” campaign on Nepali social media, where the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children are being spotlighted as symbols of systemic corruption. For many demonstrators, this movement is not just about online freedom but about reclaiming their future from a political system they feel has failed them.
In the aftermath, the government has promised to investigate the clashes, provide relief to victims’ families, and cover medical treatment for the injured. But for the young generation of Nepal, this episode has become a turning point, showing the power of collective protest and the risks they are willing to take in demanding change.
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