Kathmandu : At least eight people have died amid escalating Gen Z-led demonstrations in Kathmandu against alleged corruption and the government’s recent social media ban, local media reported on Monday.
Hundreds of protesters gathered at Maitighar, voicing outrage over the ban, which triggered widespread anger among Nepal’s youth. However, the protests quickly spiralled out of control when demonstrators breached restricted zones and stormed the Federal Parliament premises in New Baneshwor.
Authorities responded by imposing a curfew across key areas and deploying the Nepali Army to restore order. Security forces used tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and aerial firing to disperse the crowds. Despite the crackdown, clashes continued fiercely between demonstrators and security personnel.
Preliminary reports indicate that five victims died at the Trauma Centre, two at Civil Hospital, and one at Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal. Some victims have been identified, while others remain unconfirmed, according to The Himalayan Times.
The violence left hundreds injured, including protesters, journalists, and security personnel, many in critical condition and receiving treatment at hospitals across Kathmandu.
Officials described Baneshwor as “highly tense,” noting that protesters had pelted stones at police and briefly occupied the Parliament compound before being cleared.
The government stated that the curfew would remain in effect until 10 p.m., covering areas from Baneshwor Chowk to Bijuli Bazaar bridge in the west, Tinkune Chowk in the east, Ratna Rajya School in the north, and Shankhamul bridge in the south.
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli reacted to the unrest, emphasizing that the administration is against lawlessness, not platforms. “We are not against platforms or social networks—but we are against lawlessness, arrogance, and belittling our country,” Oli said. He added that companies had refused to comply with Nepalese regulations, which require social media platforms to register and pay taxes.
Earlier, on August 25, the Nepal Cabinet mandated that all social media operators register under the Directive on Regulating the Use of Social Media, 2023, within seven days. After the deadline expired on September 3, the government blocked unregistered platforms on September 4.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) identified 26 platforms for shutdown, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, X, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Reddit, Discord, Pinterest, Signal, Threads, WeChat, Quora, Tumblr, Clubhouse, Mastodon, Rumble, VK, Line, IMO, Zalo, Soul, and Hamro Patro.
The situation remains tense as authorities continue to manage protests and ensure public safety while addressing concerns raised by young demonstrators.
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