Kathmandu Erupts in Protests Over Social Media Ban; Nine Killed, Dozens Injured

Kathmandu witnessed massive demonstrations on Monday as thousands of young protesters took to the streets demanding the government lift its ban on social media platforms and address the deep-rooted culture of corruption in the country. According to The Himalayan Times, at least nine people were killed and 42 others injured in the clashes.

One protester, who sustained gunshot wounds during violent confrontations in New Baneshwor, died while undergoing treatment at Civil Hospital. In a statement, Nepal Police confirmed: “Nine people have lost their lives as protests turned violent in Kathmandu against the ban on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other social media platforms, leading to clashes between police and demonstrators.” The identities of several injured individuals remain unknown.

In Damak, tensions escalated as protesters marched from Damak Chowk towards the municipal office, setting fire to an effigy of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and attempting to breach the office gates. Police responded with water cannons, teargas, and rubber bullets, critically injuring one demonstrator, according to local media reports. Several motorcycles were also torched during the unrest.

Eyewitness accounts described demonstrators hurling back teargas canisters at security forces, who had retreated into formation, shielding themselves with riot gear.

The protests followed last week’s sweeping government order banning social media sites including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, after companies failed to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology by the stipulated deadline. TikTok, however, remains operational, and videos highlighting the contrast between ordinary Nepalis’ hardships and the extravagant lifestyles of politicians’ children have continued to circulate widely.

Waving national flags and singing the national anthem, Generation Z protesters rallied against what they called unjust restrictions and rampant corruption before launching into anti-government chants.

Prime Minister Oli, addressing a public event on Monday, defended the ban, insisting it was a matter of “national dignity.” He argued that international platforms had repeatedly ignored the government’s request to comply with Nepali law, pay taxes, and appoint local grievance officers.

“We are not against platforms or social networks; we are against lawlessness, arrogance, and belittling our country,” Oli said. “Some complain about four jobs being lost. But is that bigger than national self-respect? Jobs will return, but dignity must remain.”

The government’s move followed a Supreme Court order in September last year directing digital platforms to register locally. The cabinet subsequently gave companies seven days to comply by establishing a local office, appointing compliance officers, and ensuring accountability.

On Sunday, the government reiterated that it remained committed to protecting freedom of expression, stating it was working to “create an environment for its protection and unfettered use.”

Nepal has previously restricted access to online platforms. In July, the government blocked the messaging app Telegram, citing its use in financial fraud and money laundering.