Nepal in Turmoil: Gen Z Protests Over Social Media Ban Leave 19 Dead, PM Resigns

World 03:30 PM - 2025-09-09

A protestor carrying national flag.

Nepal is facing its most serious political crisis in years after protests, largely led by Gen Z youth, over a sweeping social media ban escalated into violent clashes, leaving at least 19 people dead and forcing the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.

The unrest began last week when the government announced a ban on 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and X. Officials said the measure was intended to curb misinformation and compel foreign platforms to register in Nepal. However, the move ignited widespread anger, particularly among young people, who viewed the restrictions as an assault on free expression and a cover for growing government corruption.

Deadly Confrontations

What started as peaceful demonstrations quickly turned violent. Security forces reportedly opened fire on crowds of protesters, most of them young, in Kathmandu and other major cities. Human rights groups condemned the use of lethal force, with Amnesty International calling it “a grave violation of basic freedoms.”

The violence has left at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured, while hospitals in Kathmandu have been overwhelmed with casualties.

Government Reverses Ban, Declares Curfew

Under mounting pressure, the government lifted the social media ban on Monday. Despite this, demonstrations continued, prompting authorities to impose an indefinite curfew in Kathmandu and surrounding areas in an attempt to restore order.

Prime Minister Resigns

Amid the growing crisis, Prime Minister Oli announced his resignation late Monday, blaming “external interference” for the unrest. He pledged compensation for victims’ families, free medical treatment for the injured, and the formation of a commission to investigate the violence within 15 days.

Beyond Censorship: A Youth Rebellion

Analysts note that the protests are about more than social media access. For many young Nepalis, the ban symbolised deeper frustrations over corruption, unemployment, nepotism, and what they see as increasingly authoritarian governance.

As Nepal reels from the bloodshed and political upheaval, questions remain over who will lead the next government — and whether the anger of the country’s youth can be calmed without deeper reforms.



PUKMEDIA