Kathmandu | September 9, 2025 – Social Media Ban Nepal : Mass protests have erupted across Nepal after the government banned 26 popular social media platforms, sparking fierce clashes between youth demonstrators and security forces. The unrest, primarily led by Gen Z, has resulted in at least 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
The government chose to block platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, and YouTube after they failed to register under new regulations intended to curb misinformation and cybercrime. In response, thousands of young Nepalis—many in school uniforms—marched to the parliament, chanting slogans such as “Stop corruption, not social media” and “Youths against corruption.”
Security forces responded with water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to control the gathering, resulting in widespread casualties. A curfew has been imposed in Kathmandu and other key cities, with soldiers deployed to maintain order.
Under mounting public pressure, the government lifted the social media ban, and the Home Minister, Ramesh Lekhak, resigned citing moral responsibility for the violence. A judicial inquiry has been launched to investigate the clashes.
FAQs Social Media Ban Nepal
- What triggered the protests?
The government banned major social platforms for failing to comply with new registration rules. - Why did Gen Z lead these protests?
Young people viewed the ban as censorship, especially amid rising corruption and state unaccountability. - How many casualties were reported?
At least 19 people were killed and hundreds were injured during violent clashes. - What was the state’s response?
Authorities used force and imposed curfews; soldiers were deployed to restore order. - What happened to the ban afterwards?
The ban was quickly lifted following the protests.
Social Media Ban Nepal
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