1. Why Was the Ban Imposed?
On 4 September 2025, Nepal blocked 26 major social media platforms—Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, YouTube, LinkedIn, Reddit—after they failed to register under the government’s new regulation, as mandated by a Supreme Court order. The move was justified as a way to curb misinformation, fraud, and hate speech. But Nepal Lifted the Social Media Ban After 19 got Killed in Gen Z Protests.
2. Gen Z Rises: The Protests Begin
Dubbed the “Gen Z protests,” young activists and students across Kathmandu and other cities mobilized, decrying censorship, corruption, and lack of economic opportunities. Thousands gathered at Maitighar Mandala and outside the Parliament at New Baneshwar.
3. Violent Crackdown: 19 Dead
Protests escalated when demonstrators breached security perimeters, prompting a heavy-handed response from police and security forces—including water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition. At least 19 people were killed, making it one of Nepal’s deadliest single-day protests in years. Over 100 protesters were injured.
4. Government Reverses Course
In response to mounting pressure, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s cabinet convened an emergency meeting and decided to lift the social media ban the next day. Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung confirmed the platforms were restored.
5. Curfews and Resignation
Authorities imposed indefinite curfews in Kathmandu and parts of Lalitpur to quell further unrest. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak took moral responsibility for the violence and resigned on 8 September 2025.
6. Aftermath & Accountability
Prime Minister Oli pledged compensation for victims’ families, free medical care for the injured, and formation of an investigation panel within 15 days. Meanwhile, UN human rights bodies and global voices called for transparent judicial inquiry into the force used against protesters.
7. Conclusion
Nepal’s brief social media blackout sparked a youth-led revolt unlike anything before. It reveals how digital repression can ignite broader demands for transparency, governance, and freedom. The swift ban reversal and ministerial resignation underscore the power of organized, peaceful dissent—even amid tragedy.
Keywords
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Hashtags:
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