Nepal has abruptly lifted its controversial social media ban after nationwide protests turned violent, leaving at least 19 people dead and over 100 injured. The government had blocked 26 platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, citing concerns over fake news and online fraud. But the move triggered mass outrage, with thousands of young demonstrators storming parliament in Kathmandu and clashing with police. Several districts were placed under curfew as protesters, many carrying placards against corruption, accused leaders of authoritarianism and shielding the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children exposed by the viral “nepo kid” campaign.
An emergency cabinet meeting late Monday reversed the ban to “address the demands of Gen Z,” officials said. However, anger continues to boil. Demonstrators hurled stones at Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s residence, while police resorted to batons, rubber bullets, and water cannons. Oli expressed sorrow over the bloodshed but blamed “vested interest groups” for infiltrating the protests. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned after heavy criticism of the crackdown.
