Nepal’s government has lifted a ban on social media platforms following violent protests in which at least 19 people died. The unrest, characterized by mass demonstrations in the capital, Kathmandu, has drawn widespread attention and condemnation. The ban, which included popular platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, was imposed just days before the protests erupted on October 9, 2023.
Speaking to Reuters, cabinet spokesperson and Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung confirmed that the government has reinstated access to these platforms. “We have withdrawn the shutdown of the social media. They are working now,” he stated, noting that all affected apps were again available to users on the morning of October 10.
Protests commenced following allegations of police brutality during the demonstrations, where officers reportedly opened fire on protesters. In addition to the fatalities, more than 100 individuals sustained injuries, with many receiving treatment at the National Trauma Centre, the principal hospital in Kathmandu. Dr. Badri Risa reported that numerous victims were in critical condition, having sustained serious gunshot wounds.
In response to the violence, an indefinite curfew has been imposed throughout the Kathmandu area. District administrator Chhabilal Rijal stated, “No protests, mass gatherings, meetings, or assemblies of people will be allowed during the curfew.” This directive aims to prevent further unrest in a city already on edge.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed his sorrow over the violent events, attributing the chaos to “infiltration from different selfish centres.” He announced that the government will provide financial support to the families of the deceased and cover medical expenses for those injured. Furthermore, an investigation panel will be established to analyze the causes of the unrest and propose measures to avert similar incidents in the future, with a report due within 15 days.
The situation has also triggered political repercussions, as Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned during an emergency cabinet meeting. The protests, primarily led by the youth, were fueled by dissatisfaction over the government’s plans to regulate social media, which critics argue could infringe on freedom of expression. Demonstrators accused authorities of stifling dissent by demanding that social media companies register and comply with local laws.
The proposed legislation aims to ensure that social media platforms are “properly managed, responsible and accountable.” However, it has faced backlash for potentially enabling censorship and silencing government critics. This comes after a previous ban on TikTok in 2023, which was reversed in 2024 after the platform’s executives agreed to adhere to local regulations.
As the government continues to navigate the sensitive situation, rights groups have voiced concerns that the proposed measures may further curtail fundamental rights in Nepal. The atmosphere remains charged, as families of the victims and supporters gather in solidarity, demanding justice and accountability from the government.
The unrest in Kathmandu reflects a broader struggle in Nepal over the balance between governance and personal freedoms, particularly in the digital age where social media plays a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion.
