Nepal Social Media Ban Sparks Deadly Protests
Nepal Social Media Ban Sparks Deadly Protests Across the Country
Kathmandu, Nepal — Several major social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, have been blocked in Nepal since Friday after the government restricted 26 unregistered sites, sparking widespread anger and confusion among users.
The protests have turned deadly. “So far, 10 protesters have died and 87 have been injured,” said Shekhar Khanal, spokesperson for Kathmandu Valley police, speaking to AFP. “The crowds are still in the streets.”
Many of the injured are being treated at Kathmandu’s Civil Hospital. “I have never seen such a disturbing situation at the hospital,” said information officer Ranjana Nepal. “Tear gas even entered the hospital area, making it difficult for doctors to work.”
In the capital, young demonstrators waving national flags began the protest by singing the national anthem before chanting against the social media restrictions and corruption. The crowd grew as they crossed into a restricted zone near the parliament, breaking through barbed wire. Violence erupted when police used batons against protesters, some of whom climbed into the parliament premises.
Authorities have imposed curfews in several key areas, including around the parliament, the president’s residence, and Singha Durbar, which houses the prime minister’s office. Similar protests have also been reported in districts across the country.
Social media platforms such as Instagram have millions of Nepali users who rely on them for entertainment, news, and business.
“We were triggered by the social media ban, but that’s not the only reason we are here,” said 24-year-old student Yujan Rajbhandari. “We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalized in Nepal.”
Another student, 20-year-old Ikshama Tumrok, added, “We are protesting against the authoritarian attitude of the government. We want to see change. Others have endured this, but it has to end with our generation.”
Since the ban, videos contrasting the struggles of ordinary Nepalis with the luxurious lifestyles of politicians’ children have gone viral on TikTok, which remains accessible. “There have been movements abroad against corruption, and the government is afraid that could happen here too,” said protester Bhumika Bharati.
The government had given the affected companies seven days to register in Nepal, establish a local point of contact, and appoint grievance and compliance officers, following a Supreme Court order issued in September last year.
In a statement on Sunday, the government said it respected freedom of thought and expression and was committed to “creating an environment for their protection and unfettered use.”
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