At least 19 people have been killed during protests in Nepal against a government ban on 26 online platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and X. The demonstrations, which have been labelled the 'gen Z protest', saw tens of thousands of largely young people take to the streets in Kathmandu and other cities.
The ban was imposed last week after the platforms missed a deadline to register under new regulations aimed at cracking down on hate speech, fake news and online crimes. On Monday, frustration boiled over as protesters broke through barriers and attempted to storm the parliament building in Kathmandu, leading to clashes with police.
Police responded with live ammunition, teargas, batons, rubber bullets and water cannon. Officials confirmed at least 19 deaths from serious injuries, including bullet wounds to the head and chest. Most deaths occurred in Kathmandu, with two in the eastern city of Itahari. More than 200 people were injured.
Many protesters, some in school uniforms, said they were also demonstrating against corruption and nepotism they allege is rampant among Nepal's political elite. The home minister, Ramesh Lekhak, resigned in response to the police killings. The UN demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the state violence.
The ban affected businesses, tourism and communication with relatives abroad. TikTok was among the few platforms not restricted after complying with the registration order, and it became a key tool for mobilising protests. Videos contrasting ordinary Nepalis' struggles with politicians' children flaunting luxury goods have gone viral, further fuelling anger.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli defended the ban, stating he would not tolerate the 'nation being undermined'. The Committee to Protect Journalists warned the ban set a 'dangerous precedent for press freedom'. Prior to the violence, dozens of journalists had protested in Kathmandu against the ban.
