Nepal has lifted a week-long ban on social media, less than a day after mass anti-corruption protests over the restriction turned violent, leaving at least 19 people dead and more than 100 injured.
Government spokesperson and Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced on Tuesday that access to major platforms, including Facebook, had been restored. “We have withdrawn the shutdown of the social media. They are working now,” he said.
The decision followed widespread unrest on Monday, when thousands of young people, described as “Gen Z protesters,” marched through Kathmandu demanding stronger action against corruption and more economic opportunities. The demonstrations quickly escalated into clashes with security forces, prompting authorities to declare an indefinite curfew in the capital and neighbouring Lalitpur.
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli expressed sadness over the loss of lives and blamed “infiltration from different selfish centres” for the violence. He promised compensation for victims’ families, free treatment for the injured, and the establishment of an investigative panel within 15 days.
Officials had defended the initial social media ban as part of a regulatory drive, citing concerns over unregistered platforms, fake accounts, and online hate speech. However, the protests highlighted rising frustration among young Nepalis, many of whom accused the government of being out of touch with their challenges. Despite the restoration of access, tensions remain as authorities struggle to balance digital regulation, public dissent, and demands for accountability.
