At least 19 people have died in Nepal after protests over political corruption and a government social media ban turned deadly. Dozens more were injured in clashes with security forces.
Thousands of protesters, mainly from Generation Z, gathered near the parliament building in Kathmandu. They were angry over the government’s decision to ban platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube. But many say corruption and poor governance are the real reasons behind the demonstrations.
Police Use Force Against Protesters
Nepal’s Minister for Communication, Prithvi Subba, said police used water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets to control the crowds. Kathmandu Valley Police confirmed that 17 people died in the capital. Two more were killed in the eastern city of Itahari after a curfew was imposed.
Some protesters climbed over walls to enter restricted areas near parliament. Tear gas even entered nearby hospitals, making it difficult for doctors to treat the injured.
Protests Focus on Corruption
Many protesters said the social media ban was only the trigger. “The ban is just the reason we gathered,” said Sabana Budathoki. “Our focus is on corruption. We want our country back.”
Placards at the protests read slogans like “Enough is enough” and “End to corruption.” Protesters said they were also standing up against the government’s authoritarian approach.
Political Fallout
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned, citing moral reasons after the deaths. The government says social media platforms must comply with Nepali law to curb fake news, hate speech, and online fraud. Some platforms have since registered and been reactivated.
The protests highlight a deep frustration among young Nepalese. Beyond the social media ban, they want change in governance, accountability, and economic progress.
