Deadly Crackdown in Nepal Protests Over Social Media Ban

 

Deadly Crackdown in Nepal Protests Over Social Media Ban

Escalating Unrest

On September 8, 2025, widespread protests erupted in Kathmandu as primarily young demonstrators, widely described as Gen Z, rallied against the government's decision to ban 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X. These platforms were blocked following authorities’ claims of non-compliance with local registration and oversight regulations.
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Tragic Outcome

Security forces responded with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and live fire, resulting in at least 16 to 19 fatalities, with injury reports varying from over 100 to 145—including 28 injured police officers.
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Scenes of Tension and Desperation

Protesters, many in school uniforms, stormed the parliament building, setting an ambulance ablaze and forcing barricades. In response, authorities imposed a curfew and deployed the Nepal Army in affected zones.
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Broader Repercussions

Although initially triggered by digital censorship, protesters broadened their message to denounce corruption and demand political transparency. The Home Minister, Ramesh Lekhak, resigned in the wake of the crackdown. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission urged restraint, warning against the use of excessive force.
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