The Nepalese government has lifted its controversial ban on social media platforms, including X, YouTube, Facebook, and 23 other sites, following violent protests that left at least 19 people dead and over 400 injured. The decision, announced late Monday, came after days of unrest led primarily by Generation Z protesters, who took to the streets of Kathmandu to oppose the government’s restrictions on digital platforms and widespread allegations of corruption.
The ban, imposed on September 4, 2025, targeted 26 social media platforms that failed to comply with new regulations requiring official registration and government oversight. Authorities, led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, justified the move as a necessary step to curb unregulated online content, citing concerns over fake IDs, hate speech, and misinformation. However, the blackout sparked immediate outrage, particularly among Nepal’s youth, who rely heavily on social media for communication, economic opportunities, and staying connected with the diaspora.
On Monday, September 8, thousands of young protesters, many in school uniforms, gathered under the banner of the group Hami Nepal, chanting, “Stop the ban on social media. Stop corruption, not social media.” The demonstrations escalated as crowds breached restricted zones near the Parliament building and Singha Durbar, the prime minister’s office. Security forces responded with water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition, leading to deadly clashes. At least 19 people were killed, with many sustaining serious injuries, including gunshot wounds to the head and chest, according to Dr. Badri Risa of the National Trauma Center.
The violence prompted an emergency Cabinet meeting on Monday night, where the government decided to reverse the ban. Nepal’s Communications and Information Technology Minister, Prithvi Subba Gurung, confirmed early Tuesday, “We have withdrawn the shutdown of the social media. They are working now.” Access to platforms like X, YouTube, and Facebook was restored by Monday night, marking a temporary de-escalation of tensions.
In addition to lifting the ban, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned late Monday, taking responsibility for the violent crackdown. Prime Minister Oli announced the formation of an investigative committee to examine the protests and promised compensation for the families of those killed. However, critics argue the government’s initial decision to impose the ban reflects broader attempts to suppress free expression and dissent in the Himalayan nation.
The protests, dubbed the “Gen Z uprising,” also highlighted deeper frustrations with Nepal’s political and economic challenges, including corruption, unemployment, and controversial financial policies. For many Nepalis, particularly those in the tourism sector, social media serves as an economic lifeline, making the ban a deeply personal issue.
