Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, has ordered an investigation into the recent protests sparked by a social‑media ban that left at least 19 people dead. The ban, imposed on Friday, blocked access to 26 unregistered platforms, including Facebook, YouTube and X, and provoked widespread outrage, especially among the younger generation that relies heavily on these services for communication.
Protests began on Monday, with thousands of young people taking to the streets of Kathmandu demanding that the government lift the ban and address corruption. The situation escalated when police opened fire on demonstrators, killing 17 people in Kathmandu and two more in the eastern district of Sunsari. More than 400 individuals were injured, including over 100 police officers.
In response to the violence, Prime Minister Oli expressed deep sadness over the deaths and announced the formation of an investigation committee to probe the events. The government subsequently lifted the social‑media ban, restoring access to all major platforms. Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said the government is open to talks with the protesters and has met one of their key demands by reinstating the platforms.
The incident has drawn international attention. Amnesty International condemned the use of live ammunition against protesters, and the United Nations called for a swift, transparent investigation. The protests also highlighted broader issues of corruption and unemployment in Nepal, where the World Bank reports a GDP per capita of approximately $1,447.
Many view the ban as an attempt to silence the younger generation, who have been using social media to voice frustration with the government and demand change. As one protester put it, “This isn’t just about social media — it’s about trust, corruption, and a generation that refuses to stay silent.” The episode underscores the need for the government to address citizens’ concerns and protect the right to freedom of expression.
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