Nepal’s government late Monday night lifted its controversial ban on social media platforms, hours after at least 19 protestors were gunned down during violent demonstrations demanding an end to corruption and restoration of digital freedoms.
The Oli-led administration convened an emergency cabinet meeting after the bloodshed, announcing the immediate restoration of Facebook, YouTube, X, and other platforms, which had been banned since September 4. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, however, deflected blame for the killings, alleging that “infiltrating groups” instigated the violence, even as security forces opened fire with live rounds and tear gas to crush the youth-led uprising.
Government spokesperson and Communication Minister Prithivi Subba Gurung confirmed: “The Prime Minister will not resign now.”
Protests Turn Deadly
The demonstrations, spearheaded by Gen-Z Nepal, spiraled into chaos on Monday as thousands marched towards Parliament. Security forces unleashed live bullets, leaving 17 dead in Kathmandu and two in Itahari. The victims were mostly students and young professionals demanding transparency, jobs, and an end to state corruption.
International outrage followed swiftly. The embassies of Australia, Finland, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and the US issued a rare joint statement, condemning the killings:
“We are deeply saddened by the violence seen in Kathmandu and elsewhere in Nepal on Monday, including the tragic loss of life and injury during demonstrations… We urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalation, and ensure that fundamental rights are protected.”
UN Demands Investigation
The UN Human Rights Office (UNHRO) echoed global concern, slamming the government for “unnecessary and disproportionate” force. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani declared:
“We are shocked by the killings and injury of protesters in Nepal today and urge a prompt and transparent investigation… All security forces must comply with the basic principles on the use of force and firearms by law enforcement officials.”
The UN further urged Nepal to rethink its digital restrictions, stressing: “We urge reconsideration of measures to regulate social media to ensure they comply with Nepal's human rights obligations.”
Youth Anger Fuels Movement
The crisis reflects growing fury among Nepal’s youth, who accuse the government of silencing dissent and deepening corruption while opportunities for education and employment shrink. Rights groups have labeled the temporary social media ban a “tool of censorship,” while student leaders vowed that Monday’s killings would only “intensify the movement for accountability.”
Despite global condemnation, Oli’s government has stood firm, defending the ban as a move to curb “fake news” and ruling out the Prime Minister’s resignation.
