Nepal Lifts Ban on Social Media Apps After Gen Z Deadly Protests

In a significant turnaround, Nepal has lifted its nationwide ban on social media apps after massive protests led by Gen Z spiraled into deadly clashes with police, leaving at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured. The government, which had imposed restrictions to enforce new digital regulations, faced mounting pressure from young demonstrators demanding freedom of expression and action against corruption.

Why the Ban Was Imposed

Last week, Nepal’s government blocked access to several major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, Snapchat, Pinterest, and X (formerly Twitter). Officials argued that these platforms failed to comply with a new regulation requiring foreign tech companies to register locally and follow Nepal’s cyber laws.

The government claimed that fake accounts were being used to spread hate speech, misinformation, and fraud. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli emphasized that X, in particular, had “disrespected Nepal’s national sovereignty” by refusing to register in the country.

The Protests and Violence

The ban quickly triggered outrage, especially among Gen Z users who rely heavily on social media for communication, activism, and livelihood. Thousands of young protesters marched through Kathmandu with placards reading:

• “Shut down corruption, not social media.”

• “Unban social media.”

• “Youths against corruption.”

The demonstrations turned violent as protesters attempted to storm Nepal’s parliament building. Police responded with water cannons, tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets. The clashes escalated, leaving 19 people dead and dozens critically injured, making it one of the deadliest youth-led protests in Nepal’s recent history.

Government’s U-Turn

Following an emergency cabinet meeting, Nepal’s Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced the government’s decision to lift the ban.

“The government has already decided to open social media by addressing the demand of Gen Z,” Gurung said, while urging demonstrators to call off their protests.

He added, however, that the government does not regret the initial shutdown, arguing it was meant to safeguard national interests.

The cabinet also formed a 15-day investigation committee to probe the violence and identify the causes of the deadly escalation.

Corruption Anger Fuels Youth Movement

While the official reason for the protests was the social media blackout, experts believe the demonstrations tapped into deeper frustrations. Many young Nepalis accuse the government of rampant corruption and failure to deliver on promises of reform.

In recent years, several corruption scandals involving ministers and senior officials have eroded public trust. Videos comparing the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children with the struggles of ordinary citizens went viral on TikTok—a platform notably exempt from the ban—which further fueled anger.

“There have been movements abroad against corruption, and they are afraid that might happen here as well,” protester Bhumika Bharati told AFP.

International Response

The United Nations has condemned the violence and called for accountability.

“We are shocked by the killings and injury of protesters in Nepal today and urge a prompt and transparent investigation,” UN rights office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani said in a statement.

Human rights groups also criticized Nepal’s government for curbing digital freedoms, warning that restrictions on online platforms set a dangerous precedent in a country where democracy is still consolidating.

Nepal’s Troubled History with Social Media

This is not the first time Nepal has clashed with digital platforms:

• In July 2024, authorities banned Telegram, citing its use in online fraud and money laundering.

• In August 2024, Nepal lifted a nine-month ban on TikTok after the company agreed to comply with local regulations.

The recurring bans highlight the tension between Nepal’s push for regulatory control and its young population’s reliance on digital platforms for expression, business, and activism.

What Happens Next?

The lifting of the ban is expected to calm protests temporarily, but youth discontent remains high. Analysts say the government will have to do more than just restore access to social media to regain public trust.

The investigation committee’s findings in the next two weeks will be closely watched. If the government fails to address corruption and accountability, experts warn that Nepal may see another wave of protests in the near future.

Final Takeaway

Nepal’s social media ban and its reversal underscore the growing power of Gen Z activism in South Asia. What began as outrage over digital restrictions quickly transformed into a broader movement against corruption and political stagnation.

While the internet blackout has ended, the protests have exposed a deeper generational divide and a demand for transparency that the government can no longer ignore.