
Police opened fire on the crowds, killing at least five protesters and injuring more than 80 others. (Photo: X/daarlagyomylord)
Nepal’s government has ordered security forces to shoot on sight after protests in Kathmandu turned violent. Most of the demonstrators were young Gen Z protesters who set fire to the Parliament building and damaged parts of it. The situation went out of control, and the police had to take strict action.
Police opened fire on the crowds, killing at least five protesters and injuring more than 80 others. The protests started after the government banned 26 social media apps, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Twitter.
Officials said the ban was needed to stop fake accounts, hate speech, and online fraud.
Security forces used rubber bullets, batons, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the crowds near the Parliament building. Many protesters tried to storm the compound despite heavy security. “We have imposed a curfew that will remain in effect until 10 pm local time to bring the situation under control after protesters turned violent,” said Kathmandu district office spokesperson Muktiram Rijal, according to Reuters.
Even after the government banned 26 platforms, young demonstrators continued to mobilise through alternative apps.
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Many turned to TikTok, Telegram, and Reddit to organise rallies and share updates. These platforms became the main tools for communication when Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Twitter went offline.
With protesters attacking key government sites, the Nepal Army was deployed to secure sensitive areas, including the residences of the Prime Minister and the President. Army personnel also entered the Parliament premises after the blaze destroyed parts of the building’s gates.
The ongoing “Gen Z Revolution” has grown into the biggest youth-led movement in years, with anger over corruption and censorship driving thousands into the streets, and the government now faces its toughest challenge as public outrage continues to rise.
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