Nepal witnessed violent protests after the government temporarily banned several social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The ban sparked anger among citizens, especially the youth, leading to clashes with police that left at least 19 people dead and over 300 injured. Following the unrest, the government lifted the social media ban but imposed curfews in several areas, including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur, to maintain law and order.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli urged people not to hold demonstrations, stating that the government never supported the social media ban. The protests were fueled not only by the ban but also by growing frustration over alleged corruption in the country. Citizens demanded stricter action against corrupt practices, while criticizing political leaders, including the Prime Minister, for failing to address systemic problems.
Curfews have been implemented under Section 6(3) of the Local Administration Act, 1971. They prohibit sit-ins, demonstrations, processions, rallies, and other forms of public gathering. In Lalitpur, the curfew is in effect until midnight, while in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur it started at 8:30 am, though no official end time has been announced. The curfew aims to prevent further violence and maintain public safety after the deadly clashes during the protests.
During the violent demonstrations, protestors surrounded the Parliament building and pushed through barbed wires. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. Some protestors were injured in the clashes, and several public areas suffered damage. Local authorities are now focusing on restoring order and ensuring that essential services are not disrupted during the curfew.
The government had initially banned 26 social media platforms that failed to register under new regulations aimed at preventing fake accounts, misinformation, and hate speech. The ban affected popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, while TikTok, which complied with registration rules, was spared. The sudden ban triggered widespread anger, particularly among students and young citizens who use social media to express opinions and organize activities.
The protests also highlighted public frustration with alleged corruption in Nepal. Many demonstrators criticized senior political leaders, claiming that corruption is widespread in government offices and agencies. A protestor told ANI news agency, “Our PM is one of the worst of all. Students only demand that corruption be stopped, but they are being shot.” The anger reflects growing dissatisfaction among citizens, especially the youth, who feel that their concerns are ignored.
Prime Minister Oli addressed the nation after the unrest, urging citizens not to participate in demonstrations. He stated that while the government expected peaceful voices from the youth, the protests were infiltrated by vested interests, which led to the tragic loss of lives. He also clarified that the government never favored a social media ban and emphasized that authorities are taking steps to resolve the issues peacefully.
The government’s quick decision to lift the social media ban is an attempt to calm public sentiment and reduce tensions. Officials are also monitoring online platforms to ensure that misinformation and hate speech do not trigger further unrest. Police forces have been deployed to maintain order and oversee compliance with the curfew in major cities.
The protests have brought attention to the need for stronger accountability in governance and better communication between authorities and citizens. Activists and civil society organizations have urged the government to engage in dialogue with students and youth representatives to address their concerns, particularly regarding transparency, corruption, and freedom of expression.
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While the curfew limits movement and public gatherings, the authorities are working to ensure that essential services like hospitals, pharmacies, and emergency services remain accessible. The government has also warned citizens that violations of curfew rules could result in penalties, as maintaining public safety is now the priority.
The recent events underline the importance of social media in Nepal’s public life, particularly for young people who rely on online platforms for information, communication, and activism. Analysts suggest that the government will need to balance regulation and freedom of expression carefully to prevent similar unrest in the future.
In conclusion, Nepal has lifted the social media ban after violent protests but continues to enforce curfews in key areas. The unrest, which resulted in fatalities and injuries, was driven by both the ban and public frustration over corruption. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has appealed for calm and emphasized that the government seeks peaceful solutions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further clashes while addressing citizens’ concerns over governance, transparency, and digital freedoms.
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