Nepal’s government has lifted a controversial ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, after violent protests in the capital and beyond resulted in at least 19 deaths and over 100 injuries.
On Monday, thousands of young protesters stormed the parliament building in Kathmandu, demanding the immediate reversal of the social media ban and action against widespread corruption. The demonstrations, which also spread to towns outside the capital, saw clashes between police and protesters, with authorities deploying water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds.
The decision to lift the ban was announced late Monday following an emergency cabinet meeting aimed at addressing the demands of the country’s youth, often referred to as “Gen Z,” according to Communications and Information Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung.
Protests Fueled by Broader Grievances
While the social media ban sparked the protests, many demonstrators emphasized that their outrage extended beyond the restrictions. Holding placards with slogans such as “Enough is Enough” and “End Corruption,” protesters voiced frustration over what they perceive as the government’s authoritarian tendencies. Some also targeted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s residence in his hometown of Damak, hurling stones in a show of defiance.
Sabana Budathoki, a protester, told the BBC that the social media ban was merely a catalyst for the unrest. “Rather than the social media ban, I think everyone’s focus is on corruption,” she said. “We want our country back. We came to stop corruption.”
A recent social media campaign dubbed “nepo kid” has gained traction in Nepal, highlighting the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children and alleging that their wealth stems from corrupt practices.
Government Response and Resignation
Prime Minister Oli expressed deep sorrow over the violence and loss of life, attributing the unrest to “infiltration by various vested interest groups.” He announced the formation of a panel to investigate the protests and promised financial relief for victims’ families, as well as free medical treatment for those injured.
In a significant development, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned Monday evening amid fierce criticism of the government’s use of force against protesters.
Context of the Ban
The government imposed the social media ban last week, citing the need to curb fake news, hate speech, and online fraud. Authorities had ordered the 26 platforms to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, a requirement the platforms failed to meet by the stipulated deadline. The government maintained that the ban was not an outright prohibition but an effort to align social media operations with Nepali law.
In Nepal, platforms like Instagram are integral to millions of users who rely on them for news, entertainment, and business. The abrupt restrictions ignited widespread discontent, particularly among the younger population, culminating in Monday’s protests.
