Nepal May Roll Back Social Media Ban After Deadly Youth Protests.
Kathmandu erupted in unrest on Monday as thousands of young protesters took to the streets, demanding the government reverse its social media ban and confront widespread corruption. Deaths and 87 injuries after clashes between demonstrators and security forces. One protester wounded in New Baneshwor died while being treated at Civil Hospital. The identities of several injured remain unknown.
In Damak, crowds marched from the town center to the municipal office, torching an effigy of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and attempting to storm the gates. Police fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and used water cannons, critically injuring one demonstrator. Several motorcycles were set ablaze as tensions escalated.
In Kathmandu, protesters hurled tear gas canisters back at police, forcing officers to huddle behind shields.
Government Signals Reconsideration
Government spokesperson Prithvi Subba Gurung said the cabinet will review the ban during a meeting called by Prime Minister Oli. “The lives of our people are the most important thing. If the government’s decisions need to be reconsidered, there is no point in remaining steadfast,” he told BBC.
Last week, Nepal blocked access to Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms after they failed to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. TikTok, still active, has become a hub for videos contrasting the struggles of ordinary Nepalis with the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children, fueling anger.
Oli Defends Policy
Speaking at a public event on Monday, Oli defended the ban as a matter of “national dignity.” He accused global tech companies of refusing to comply with Nepali law, pay taxes, or establish local offices.
“We are not against platforms or social networks; we are against lawlessness, arrogance, and belittling our country,” Oli said. He dismissed concerns over job losses, adding: “For self-respect, maybe four jobs go for four days, but new ones will come.”
The cabinet last month gave companies seven days to register, appoint grievance officers, and set up local contact points, in line with a Supreme Court directive.
Pattern of Online Restrictions
Nepal has imposed online bans before. Telegram was blocked in July over fraud and money laundering concerns, while TikTok faced a nine-month suspension that was lifted only last year after agreeing to government conditions. Despite official assurances that it “respects freedom of thought and expression,” the government now faces its fiercest challenge yet as Gen Z-led demonstrations grow into a broader movement against corruption and political privilege.
Comments are closed.