Nepal Lifts Social Media Ban After Protests Leave 19 Dead

TDT | Manama

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Nepal’s government lifted its ban on social media platforms Tuesday, a day after police opened fire on mass street protests in the capital, killing 19 people. The demonstrations erupted in response to a government order requiring social media companies to register and submit to oversight, which critics said threatened freedom of expression.

Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in Kathmandu, closed schools, and extended restrictions to other cities. Despite the curfew, small protests continued, though police reportedly did not use force.

Protesters voiced their anger against Prime Minister K.P. Oli’s government, chanting slogans such as “Punish the murders in government. Stop killing children.” Demonstrators called for accountability for the slain youth and the ouster of the unpopular prime minister.

“We are here to protest because our friends and youth are being killed,” said Narayan Acharya, among the protesters outside the parliament building. “We want justice and the current regime removed.” Another protester, Durganah Dahal, condemned the police shootings and vowed to continue demonstrating until the government falls.

Monday’s rallies, dubbed the “Gen Z protest,” drew tens of thousands of people to the streets, with crowds surrounding the Parliament building before police opened fire. Seven of the dead and numerous injured were admitted to the National Trauma Center, the country’s main hospital. Many had gunshot wounds to the head and chest. Families waited anxiously for news, while volunteers lined up to donate blood.

In response, Prime Minister Oli announced the formation of a 15-day investigating committee, promising compensation for the deceased and free medical treatment for the wounded. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak also resigned following an emergency Cabinet meeting.

The government’s push to regulate social media through a new bill has been widely criticized as a tool for censorship and suppressing dissent. The legislation requires companies to appoint local liaison offices and comply with government oversight. Platforms including Facebook, X, and YouTube were blocked last week after failing to register, while TikTok, Viber, and several others continued operating.

Nepal had previously banned TikTok in 2023, citing threats to “social harmony,” but the ban was lifted after the platform agreed to comply with local laws. Rights groups continue to warn that the latest regulations could curtail freedom of speech and fundamental rights.