Nepal Reverses Social Media Ban as Protests Turn Deadly
Nepal reverses social media ban as protests turn deadly, marking one of the most dramatic political U-turns in recent years. The move came after violent clashes left at least 19 people dead and over 100 injured, as students and young citizens took to the streets to demand their online freedoms.
Image Credits:Sunil Pradhan/Anadolu / Getty Images
Why Nepal Imposed the Ban
The ban began after an August 25 directive requiring global platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X to register locally and appoint a Nepal-based contact within seven days. When most companies failed to comply, the government responded by blocking 26 major platforms.
This sparked immediate backlash, particularly from Gen Z, who rely on these platforms for communication, activism, and expression.
The U-Turn After Mass Protests
On Monday evening, Nepal’s Communications and Information Technology Minister, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced the ban had been revoked. The decision followed hours of escalating protests where thousands of students, many in school uniforms, filled the streets nationwide.
Local media reported at least 19 deaths and more than 100 injuries during clashes between protesters and security forces. The government’s reversal highlights the growing power of youth-led digital movements in Nepal.
Prime Minister’s Response and Resignation
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli addressed the nation, claiming violent elements had infiltrated the demonstrations. He insisted the government supported the aspirations of the younger generation but acknowledged the crisis had spiraled beyond control.
Shortly afterward, Oli resigned, facing mounting pressure from the public and political opposition. His departure underscores how deeply digital rights and freedom of expression resonate with Nepal’s youth.
International Reactions
The reversal drew responses from international bodies, including the United Nations, which expressed concern over the loss of life and urged Nepal to safeguard freedom of expression. Human rights groups also called the ban a violation of democratic principles, stressing that social media is now a core part of civic participation.
What Comes Next for Nepal
While Nepal reverses social media ban as protests turn deadly, questions remain about how the government will regulate global tech platforms moving forward. The demand for local compliance may return in a revised form, but the deadly fallout has shown the cost of silencing digital voices in a connected generation.
For now, the episode marks a pivotal moment in Nepal’s digital and political history—where young people proved they could shape government policy through collective action.
