After a day of violent protests that resulted in the death of 19 people, the social media platforms have been restored in Kathmandu. The protests ignited when the people demanded the ban to be lifted and asked the government to focus on tackling corruption
As per the reports by AFP, Nepal’s Minister for Communication, Prithvi Subba Gurung, was quoted by local media that the ban has been removed after an urgent cabinet meeting.
The government banned 26 unregistered social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X. After the ban, the young generation who rely on these social media platforms for education, communication, and work furiously protested.
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TikTok was not banned, which instantly became a space which showcased the contrasting lives of Nepali people working through life’s hardships and dealing with the economic crisis and politicians’ kids flaunting designer clothes, bags, and luxury cars.
The protest ignited in Kathmandu and other cities by Monday. Protestors carried the national flags towards the parliament, where a clash erupted. Water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons were used by the police; Amnesty International alleged that live rounds were fired. As per the local media reports, 19 people were killed and two more in Sunsari district. Hospitals confirmed dozens of admissions, many with gunshot wounds.
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The protests come at a time when Nepal is struggling with an economic crisis. There is a 10% unemployment rate in the country. The World Bank places the GDP per capita at just $1,447. Many citizens felt that the leaders are disconnected from the actual problems of daily life.
Although access to major platforms has now resumed, sites like Instagram remain suspended, keeping millions cut off from their main digital spaces and adding to public anger.
