Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising: Social Media Ban Sparks Deadly Nationwide Protests
Nepal is embroiled in one of its most severe political crises in recent history. Sparked by a government-imposed ban on major social media platforms—including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X—the "Gen Z protests" erupted into widespread unrest led primarily by young citizens and students.
In Kathmandu and across several cities, thousands marched to express their fury over the perceived erosion of digital freedoms and escalating corruption. Protesters stormed barricades near the parliament, set government buildings on fire, and displayed slogans like “Unban social media” and “Shut down corruption” as they rallied for accountability and transparency.
The government's reaction was swift and heavy-handed. Security forces used tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. The ensuing clashes turned tragic: at least 19 people were killed, and hundreds were injured as confrontations intensified—marking one of the deadliest episodes of civil unrest in Nepal’s recent memory.
Facing the escalation, the government reversed course and lifted the social media ban amid emergency consultations. The Home Minister resigned on moral grounds, accepting responsibility for the crackdown. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli also submitted his resignation, setting in motion a political transition to quell mounting tensions.
Authorities imposed curfews in numerous cities, including Kathmandu, and deployed military forces to restore order. Despite the easing of digital restrictions, protests persisted—with many young Nepalis demanding deeper structural reforms and justice for those who lost their lives.
Human rights organizations have condemned the government's use of lethal force, urging immediate accountability and independent investigations. The protests have not only reflected discontent over censorship but also a broader generational demand for transparency and democratic governance.
As Nepal stands at this crossroads, the uprising underscores the growing resolve of its youth—fighting not just for digital expression, but for a renewed social contract that respects their voice and vision.
In Kathmandu and across several cities, thousands marched to express their fury over the perceived erosion of digital freedoms and escalating corruption. Protesters stormed barricades near the parliament, set government buildings on fire, and displayed slogans like “Unban social media” and “Shut down corruption” as they rallied for accountability and transparency.
The government's reaction was swift and heavy-handed. Security forces used tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. The ensuing clashes turned tragic: at least 19 people were killed, and hundreds were injured as confrontations intensified—marking one of the deadliest episodes of civil unrest in Nepal’s recent memory.
Facing the escalation, the government reversed course and lifted the social media ban amid emergency consultations. The Home Minister resigned on moral grounds, accepting responsibility for the crackdown. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli also submitted his resignation, setting in motion a political transition to quell mounting tensions.
Authorities imposed curfews in numerous cities, including Kathmandu, and deployed military forces to restore order. Despite the easing of digital restrictions, protests persisted—with many young Nepalis demanding deeper structural reforms and justice for those who lost their lives.
Human rights organizations have condemned the government's use of lethal force, urging immediate accountability and independent investigations. The protests have not only reflected discontent over censorship but also a broader generational demand for transparency and democratic governance.
As Nepal stands at this crossroads, the uprising underscores the growing resolve of its youth—fighting not just for digital expression, but for a renewed social contract that respects their voice and vision.