Nepal Protests Turn Deadly as Social Media Ban Sparks Unrest

Kathmandu: At least 19 people were killed and more than 100 injured on Monday as violent protests erupted across Nepal after the government blocked access to major social media platforms, including Facebook.

Clashes broke out in Kathmandu and other major cities, where thousands of young protesters—many in school and college uniforms—stormed barricades outside the parliament. Police fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Eyewitnesses said police fired indiscriminately, while protesters set an ambulance on fire and hurled objects at security forces. Injured demonstrators were rushed to hospitals, with many transported on motorcycles. Among the injured were 28 police officers.

In Itahari, two people were killed when protests turned violent. Demonstrations also spread to Biratnagar, Bharatpur, and Pokhara.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli convened an emergency cabinet meeting as the unrest escalated. Protesters carried flags and placards reading: “Shut down corruption, not social media,” and “Youths against corruption.” Organizers called the movement a Gen Z-led uprising against corruption and poor economic opportunities.

Authorities defended the ban, saying it was aimed at curbing fake accounts, hate speech, and online fraud. Nepal has over 30 million people, with 90% internet penetration, making social media a vital platform for communication.

The government imposed a curfew around the parliament and deployed army troops to assist police. Although violence slowed by evening, large groups of protesters continued demonstrations near parliament buildings.

Observers say the protests highlight deep frustration among young Nepalis, many of whom leave the country for education and jobs due to corruption and limited opportunities at home. Critics warn that restricting social media could further suppress free expression.

The Nepal unrest mirrors a global trend of tighter online regulations, raising debates about the balance between national security and digital freedoms.