Deadly Clashes Erupt in Nepal Over Social Media Ban and Corruption Protests

Deadly Clashes Erupt in Nepal Over Social Media Ban and Corruption Protests
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At least 19 people were killed and dozens more injured in Nepal after nationwide demonstrations against political corruption and a government decision to block social media platforms turned violent, the BBC reported. Thousands of mostly young protesters gathered near parliament in Kathmandu, angered by restrictions on platforms such as Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram, as well as broader frustrations with corruption and economic stagnation.

Demonstrators carried placards reading “enough is enough” and accused the government of silencing dissent. Security forces responded with water cannons, batons, tear gas and rubber bullets after protesters entered restricted zones. Seventeen deaths were recorded in the capital and two in the eastern city of Itahari. Hospitals reported severe overcrowding, with doctors struggling after tear gas entered treatment wards.

Authorities imposed a curfew around key government areas, and the army deployed troops to support police. The violence prompted Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak to resign on Monday evening, citing moral responsibility. The United Nations urged a transparent investigation, warning of excessive force by security personnel. Officials said the restrictions targeted unregistered platforms to curb fake news and online fraud. However, many citizens are bypassing the ban with VPNs, while critics argue it reflects authoritarian tendencies.