Gen Z protests in Nepal: 5 inmates dead, over 13,000 prisoners escape jail as tensions escalate
Major platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, have been inaccessible in Nepal after authorities ordered a shutdown of 26 unregistered sites
Sep 10, 2025 06:25 PM
IndiGo resumes flight operations from Kathmandu airport
Sep 10, 2025 06:24 PM
Delhi transport body suspends bus service to Kathmandu
The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has suspended its Delhi-Kathmandu bus service due to the ongoing unrest in Nepal.
Sep 10, 2025 05:46 PM
Gen Z selects ex-Chief justice as head of state
Nepal's Gen Z has reached consensus to bring in former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as head of government
Sep 10, 2025 05:30 PM
Death toll in Nepal protests rises to 25 as tensions escalate
Sep 10, 2025 04:56 PM
Nepal imposes night curfew from 5pm-6am
Authorities in Nepal have imposed a curfew from 5 pm to 6 am, prohibiting people from being present on the streets during these hours.
Sep 10, 2025 04:16 PM
Kathmandu airport will reopen from today: Nepal Civil Aviation Authority
"We hereby inform that the flights suspended due to adverse circumstances would now be lifted, which has been made in accordance with the decision of the Tribhuvan International Airport Security Committee meeting held today. Passengers traveling to the airport for flights are requested to contact their respective airline companies for flight information and to bring official airline tickets and identification documents with them when traveling.“
Sep 10, 2025 02:57 PM
India to send special flight to evacuate citizens stranded in Nepal
Preparations are underway to send special aircraft to evacuate Indian citizens stranded at Kathmandu airport. As the airport remains shut even today, the government of India is making efforts in order to ensure safe evacuation of the citizens. Currently, more than 400 Indian citizens are stuck at Kathmandu airport.
Sep 10, 2025 02:00 PM
India-Nepal border on high alert amid violent clashes
India has tightened security along its border with Nepal amid violent, youth-led protests against a social media ban and corruption in the neighbouring Himalayan country, where Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has resigned under public pressure.
Sep 10, 2025 01:27 PM
Several Indians stuck in Kathmandu amid Gen Z protests
Several Indians are stuck in Kathmandu amid escalating protests and violence. People have appealed to Prime Minister Modi for safe evacuation.
Sep 10, 2025 12:04 PM
Kathmandu airport shut till 6 pm
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu will remain closed until 6 pm on Wednesday, General Manager Hansa Raj Pandey confirmed. All flights – including domestic, international, and private helicopter services – have been suspended, with both arrivals and departures on hold.
Sep 10, 2025 11:47 AM
Nepal Gen Z protesters lay out demands
Key demands:
- Immediate dissolution of the existing House of Representatives, which demonstrators argue no longer holds public trust.
- Revision or complete redrafting of the Constitution, carried out with meaningful involvement from citizens, experts, and young people.
- Fresh elections after a transitional phase, to be conducted independently, fairly, and with genuine public participation.
- Creation of a directly elected executive leadership to enhance accountability.
- Thorough investigation of wealth accumulated over the past 30 years, with illegally acquired assets to be seized and returned to the state.
- Comprehensive reforms in five key sectors — education, healthcare, judiciary, security, and communications — through structural changes and institutional restructuring.
Sep 10, 2025 11:39 AM
Former PM Jhalanath Khanal’s wife dies as protestors set residence ablaze
Amid deadly, violent anti-corruption protests in Nepal, former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, were assaulted by demonstrators on Tuesday. Videos on the internet showed the ex-Prime Minister with blood on his face following the attack. Authorities arrived only after the residence had been ransacked. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of Nepal’s former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, died on Tuesday after protesters, reportedly led by Gen Z, trapped her in their home and set it on fire.
Sep 9, 2025 06:33 PM
The Nepal Army has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s independence, unity, and the lives and property of its people, regardless of the challenges faced. The Army stated that it is closely monitoring the developments related to the ongoing Gen-Z protests.
Expressing sorrow over the heavy loss of lives and property during the demonstrations, the Army offered condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for peace to the departed souls. It also extended wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured.
The Army emphasised that it stands fully prepared to ensure the security and well-being of Nepal and its citizens. Highlighting the importance of preserving the country’s historical, cultural, and national heritage during this difficult time, the Army urged the youth and all citizens to maintain harmony, solidarity, and unity.
Sep 9, 2025 06:32 PM
Nepal Army urges citizens to maintain calm, vows protection of lives and national assets
Sep 9, 2025 06:31 PM
Nepal President Ramchandra offers talks with protesters, denies resignation reports
Sep 9, 2025 06:16 PM
Nepal Army Chief Ashok Raj Sigdel to address the nation
Nepal’s Chief of Army Staff, Ashok Raj Sigdel, is set to address the nation soon. His address comes at a critical juncture when the Prime Minister and nearly all top government officials have resigned from their posts.
Sep 9, 2025 06:15 PM
Security tightened at Nepal embassy in Delhi
In light of the violent protests in Nepal over the past two days, security at the Nepal Embassy in New Delhi has been stepped up. The embassy is located on Barakhamba Road in the capital.
Sep 9, 2025 06:14 PM
Gen-Z protesters in Nepal urge calm, appeal against vandalism
Gen-Z youth leading protests in Nepal have issued a letter urging demonstrators to remain peaceful and refrain from damaging public property.
In the letter, they claimed that the government has been brought to its knees, with Prime Minister Oli stepping down. “This country is now under our leadership. Do not harm public property. Together, we can build a safe and secure Nepal. Our unity will lay the foundation for real change,” the statement read.
Sep 9, 2025 06:13 PM
1,500 prisoners escape from Nakkhu Jail after Rabi Lamichhane’s release
Nearly 1,500 inmates escaped from Lalitpur’s Nakkhu Jail following the release of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chairman Rabi Lamichhane, reports said.
According to media sources, after Lamichhane was freed, the police decided to withdraw from security checkpoints around the prison, giving inmates the opportunity to flee.
The mass jailbreak has triggered major security concerns in the area. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as the sudden release of so many prisoners poses a significant threat to public safety.
Sep 9, 2025 06:11 PM
Former PM Jhala Nath’s wife burned alive by protesters
In Kathmandu’s Dallu area, protesters set fire to the residence of former Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal, resulting in the tragic death of his wife, Rajyalakshmi Chitrakar.
She was inside the house when the fire broke out and suffered severe burns. She was immediately rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital.
According to family sources, her condition was extremely critical, with multiple burn injuries and serious damage to her lungs. Despite efforts, she could not survive.
Sep 9, 2025 05:30 PM
After Nepali PM Oli, President Ram Chandra Paudel quits
Sep 9, 2025 05:20 PM
Fire at Former PM Jhala Nath Khanal’s House in Kathmandu; wife critical
A fire broke out at the residence of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal in the Dallu area of Kathmandu.
At the time of the fire, his wife, Rajyalakshmi Chitrakar, was inside the house. She suffered severe burns and was immediately taken to Kirtipur Burn Hospital.
According to the family, her condition is critical, with extensive burns on several parts of her body and serious damage to her lungs.
Sep 9, 2025 05:12 PM
7 Key Reasons Behind Youth Movement in Nepal
Nepotism: Generation Z has grown frustrated with corruption, inflation, and unemployment. Favoritism and placing preferred candidates in positions of power—along with politicians’ children showing off foreign trips, branded goods, and lavish parties—went viral on social media, fueling resentment.
Social Media Ban: People felt their voices were being silenced. Many youths were also earning through social media, so the ban sparked anger and protests.
Three Major Scandals: Over the past four years, three major financial scandals came to light: the Giri Land Swap Scam of ₹54,600 crore in 2021, the Oriental Cooperative Scam of ₹13,600 crore in 2023, and the Cooperative Scam of ₹69,600 crore in 2024. These scandals intensified public anger against the government.
Political Instability: Nepal has seen three governments in five years. Sher Bahadur Deuba became PM in July 2021, Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) in December 2022, and KP Sharma Oli took office in July 2024. This frequent change created unrest among youths.
Unemployment & Economic Inequality: The unemployment rate has slightly risen from 10.39% in 2019 to 10.71% now. Inflation has increased from 4.6% in 2019 to 5.2% today. Economic inequality is stark, with 20% of the population holding 56% of the wealth.
Foreign Influence: When Oli came to power, his tilt toward China increased. Previous governments often made decisions under US influence, but under Oli, while social media was banned, only Chinese apps like TikTok continued. Youths felt Nepal was being used as a pawn by powerful nations.
Growing Distance from India: Under PM Oli, Nepal included the Lipulekh Pass in its official maps and strengthened ties with China. Rising tensions with India created economic pressure and added to the anxiety among the youth.
Sep 9, 2025 04:49 PM
India issues helpline numbers
The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a follow-up advisory, urging Indian citizens to postpone all travel to Nepal until the situation stabilises. Those already in Nepal have been advised to remain indoors, avoid venturing onto the streets, and exercise heightened caution.
To support Indian nationals in need, the ministry has provided the following helpline numbers for the Embassy of India in Kathmandu:
977 – 980 860 2881 (WhatsApp calls accepted)
977 – 981 032 6134 (WhatsApp calls accepted)
Citizens requiring assistance are encouraged to contact these numbers for help.
Sep 9, 2025 04:24 PM
2 protesters killed in police firing in Kathmandu, toll mounts to 22
Sep 9, 2025 04:18 PM
India issues advisory for its citizens in Nepal
Sep 9, 2025 04:12 PM
Rabi Lamichhane released from jail
In Nepal, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) president Rabi Lamichhane has been released from Nakkhu Jail in Lalitpur. He was arrested on October 18, 2024, in connection with a fraud case and later sent to prison.
According to reports, the jail authorities stated that they could not guarantee his safety. Following this, his wife, Nikita Paudel, personally took responsibility and secured his release.
As soon as news of his release spread, thousands of supporters gathered outside the prison. Wearing white clothes, Rabi Lamichhane greeted the cheering crowd upon stepping out.
Sep 9, 2025 04:07 PM
Embassy of India Kathmandu says, "All Indian nationals in Nepal are hereby requested to note the following telephone numbers from the Embassy of India, Kathmandu, for contact, in case they are facing any emergency situation or require assistance: 977 – 980 860 2881 , 977 – 981 032 6134."
Sep 9, 2025 04:06 PM
Security forces have shifted Oli to a safe location by helicopter. The destination where he has been taken remains undisclosed.
Sep 9, 2025 04:05 PM
President's personal residence

Sep 9, 2025 04:04 PM
Oli's personal residence

Sep 9, 2025 04:03 PM
Parliament building on fire

Sep 9, 2025 04:01 PM
Nepal burns,: Several Indian flights rerouted, cancelled
Sep 9, 2025 04:00 PM
Oli likely to leave country; border with India on high alert
Sep 9, 2025 03:48 PM
2 Kathmandu-bound flights diverted to Lucknow
Two Indigo flights bound for Nepal's Kathmandu were diverted to Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow owing to the closure of the airport in Nepal amid violent protests.
Sep 9, 2025 03:46 PM
Nepal Parliament gutted in Kathmandu
Sep 9, 2025 03:25 PM
Air India flights cancelled amid protests In Nepal
Sep 9, 2025 03:22 PM
Former PM proposes formation of interim government
Former Prime Minister Dr Baburam Bhattarai has proposed forming an interim government by including the protesting youth. He said, “Let us join hands with the youth of Nepal to form an interim government.”
Sep 9, 2025 03:14 PM
Nepal's Tribhuvan International Airport Shut Down Amid Unrest, All Flight Operations Halted
All flights at Tribhuvan International Airport have been cancelled on Tuesday due to unprecedented circumstances and security concerns.
Sep 9, 2025 03:12 PM
President Ram Chandra Poudel has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
Sep 9, 2025 03:11 PM
Border with India on high alert amid turmoil in Nepal
As anti-corruption protests in Nepal escalate, the Nepal border with India has been put on high alert
Sep 9, 2025 03:06 PM
Nepal ministers, VIPs being evacuated via choppers as protests escalate
Sep 9, 2025 02:24 PM
Nepal PM Oli resigns after Army Chief asks him to quit amid Gen Z protests
Sep 9, 2025 02:06 PM
Kalinmati police station also set afire in Kathmandu
Sep 9, 2025 02:05 PM
Parliament building set on fire
Sep 9, 2025 01:51 PM
PM's private house set ablaze

Sep 9, 2025 01:50 PM
Tribhuvan airport in Kathmandu shut down
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu has been completely closed due to a fire in the Gothatar area, rising unrest, and growing security concerns.
A senior official from Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that the situation was not suitable for flight operations.
Sep 9, 2025 01:49 PM

Sep 9, 2025 01:48 PM
Protesters attack Hilton Hotel in Kathmandu
Protesters attacked the Hilton Hotel in Kathmandu and set parts of it on fire. They first pelted stones at the hotel’s glass walls and then broke through the main gate to enter inside.
The police attempted to disperse the crowd, but due to the large number of protesters, it became difficult to bring the situation under control. Smoke was seen rising from the hotel premises, though it is not yet clear whether the fire actually broke out inside the hotel.
Sep 9, 2025 01:18 PM
Protesters torch, vandalise homes of senior Nepali leaders, Including PM and President
Protesters have escalated their campaign by targeting the homes and offices of senior political figures across Nepal. Residences of top leaders—including the private homes of the President and Prime Minister—were vandalised and set ablaze.
Among those attacked were:
Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman
Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba
Mahesh Basnet, UML Leader
Gagan Thapa, Nepali Congress leader
Ramesh Lekhak, Former Home Minister
Sher Bahadur Deuba, Nepali Congress President
President Ram Chandra Paudel’s private residence
Prithvi Subba Gurung, Minister of Telecommunications
Nepali Congress Headquarters in Kathmandu
Sep 9, 2025 01:15 PM
Preparations underway to shut Tribhuvan Airport
Nepal’s Tribhuvan International Airport is being prepared for closure due to security reasons, a senior official from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal said. The move comes after repeated incidents of arson in Gothatar and nearby areas.
The official added that, for now, aircraft currently in the air will not be permitted to land at Kathmandu airport.
Sep 9, 2025 01:09 PM
Vandalism and arson at President, PM residences
According to media reports, protesters vandalised and set fire to the residences of Nepal’s President and Prime Minister.
Sep 9, 2025 01:08 PM
Nepal’s Water Supply Minister Pradeep Yadav quits
Nepal’s Water Supply Minister Pradeep Yadav resigned on Tuesday, stating it was inappropriate to remain in office after 20 persons were killed during Gen Z-led protests on Monday. His resignation was confirmed by his personal secretariat.
Sep 9, 2025 01:06 PM
Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana’s school set on fire
Protesters torched Ullens School in Lalitpur, owned by Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba. The police reported that demonstrators also blocked fire brigade vehicles attempting to douse the flames.
Sep 9, 2025 01:04 PM
Protesters mobilising via Discord
Demonstrators have reportedly been using the Discord app to coordinate their actions. Shared messages include instructions on marching toward the airport, preparing Molotov cocktails, employing acetylene gas to disable aircraft tyres, and targeting police stations to seize ammunition.
Sep 9, 2025 12:58 PM
Nepal President’s residence torched as protests spark resignations
Nepal President’s residence torched as protests spark resignations
Sep 9, 2025 11:47 AM
Nepal Agriculture Minister Ramnath Adhikari has also stepped down, citing the government’s “authoritarian” response to the protests. Earlier, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who quit on Monday evening, hours after 20 persons were killed during clashes between protesters and police.
Sep 9, 2025 11:46 AM
Nepal Agriculture Minister Ramnath Adhikari has also resigned, in the wake of the protests.
Sep 9, 2025 11:46 AM
Fresh violence erupts in Kathmandu even as govt lifts ban on social media; ministers resigning
Sep 8, 2025 07:43 PM
Sep 8, 2025 07:42 PM
Security up at party offices, schools closed
Authorities in Nepal have tightened security around major political party offices and leaders’ residences amid ongoing protests across the country. Curfew has been imposed around the headquarters of the ruling UML and Nepali Congress parties to prevent further clashes.
As a precautionary measure, the government has announced the closure of schools and colleges in multiple cities for the next two days, aiming to ensure the safety of students amid rising unrest.
Sep 8, 2025 07:40 PM
Nepal Home Minister offers resignation
Nepal Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has submitted his resignation taking moral responsibility for the deaths of 20 student protesters during violent clashes earlier today. Sources report that Lekhak offered his resignation during a meeting with Nepali Congress office-bearers.
The move comes amid mounting pressure from opposition parties, who had demanded his immediate removal following the tragic incident.
Sep 8, 2025 07:22 PM
Exams postponed
All exams scheduled for September 9, 10, and 11, 2025 (from 7 am to 10 am and from 12 noon to 3 pm) have been postponed.
Sep 8, 2025 07:21 PM
Nepal police fire tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters
Sep 8, 2025 07:21 PM
Curfew expanded across key areas in Kathmandu
Kathmandu authorities have significantly widened the curfew zone as protests intensify across the city. What initially began as a limited curfew in parts of Baneshwar, following breaches by demonstrators, has now been extended to cover major government and residential areas.
The newly restricted zones include the President’s residence at Shital Niwas, the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, the Vice-President’s residence in Lainchaur, Maharajgunj, and all sides of the Singha Durbar administrative complex. Officials stated that the expansion is intended to prevent further clashes near high-security areas and maintain law and order as unrest continues to grip the capital.
Sep 8, 2025 07:20 PM
CPN (Maoist Centre) appeals to Gen Z protesters for restraint
Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, chairperson of the main opposition party CPN (Maoist Centre), has urged Gen Z protesters to remain calm and act responsibly amid escalating unrest. Speaking at a programme in Arughat on Monday, Prachanda expressed solidarity with the youth-led movement, noting that their demands closely align with those of his party.
“I urge my brothers and sisters in the Gen Z movement to proceed with patience and help ease the situation,” he said. “Your issues and our issues are the same.”
In a demonstration of support, the Maoist Centre has temporarily suspended its campaign focused on the Mid-Hill Highway, citing the nationwide protests and the ongoing political crisis in Kathmandu and other regions.
Sep 8, 2025 06:39 PM
20 dead, over 250 hurt as clashes escalate in Kathmandu and Itahari
At least 20 persons have died and over 250 injured in Nepal amid escalating protests, with 18 fatalities reported in Kathmandu and two in Itahari. Tensions remain high around the parliament building in the capital, where violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces continue. Authorities are struggling to contain the unrest as protests spread across multiple cities.
Sep 8, 2025 06:17 PM
Recent corruption scandals
Nepal has been gripped by a wave of high-profile corruption scandals in 2025, fueling widespread public anger and raising tough questions about political and bureaucratic accountability. From ministerial resignations to billion-rupee embezzlement cases, the country is witnessing one of its most turbulent years in governance. Key developments include:
Minister Rajkumar Gupta’s Bribery Scandal
In July 2025, Federal Affairs Minister Rajkumar Gupta stepped down after the leak of an audio recording in which he allegedly sought a bribe of NPR 7.8 million in exchange for manipulating appointments to the Land Commission in Kaski district. His resignation followed mounting political pressure and nationwide condemnation.
The Long-Running Land Scandal
Former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has been formally charged over a controversial land transfer deal dating back 15 years. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) claims the transaction breached ownership ceilings, causing losses of NPR 185.85 million (approx. USD 1.35 million) to the state. Altogether, 92 people—including former ministers—have been named in the case.
Nepal Telecom Irregularities
In June 2025, the CIAA charged 18 officials, among them current and former managing directors of Nepal Telecom, for alleged irregularities in billing contracts and the embezzlement of public funds. Authorities are seeking NPR 334.8 million in damages.
Visit Visa Extortion at Tribhuvan Airport
In May 2025, CIAA officials raided the immigration office at Tribhuvan International Airport and arrested Joint Secretary Tirtha Raj Bhattarai on charges of visa extortion and trafficking. The scandal triggered nationwide outrage, forcing the government to establish a high-level inquiry panel.
Pokhara International Airport Embezzlement
A parliamentary probe has revealed embezzlement of nearly NPR 14 billion during the construction of Pokhara International Airport, a project financed by Chinese loans. Investigators highlighted major procedural lapses and a lack of transparency, raising questions about oversight and accountability.
Giri Bandhu Tea Estate Land Ordinance
An ordinance passed in early 2025 permitting real estate companies to exceed legal landholding limits has drawn fierce criticism. Opponents allege the measure was designed to sidestep a Supreme Court ruling in the Giri Bandhu Tea Estate dispute. A contempt petition has since been filed, further intensifying legal and political backlash.
Sep 8, 2025 06:15 PM
Curfew enforced at Bhairahawa Border with India
Nepal has enforced a curfew at the Bhairahawa border with India following escalating protests in the Terai region. Demonstrations have intensified across several cities, with protesters demanding change. Authorities said the curfew in Lumbini district’s Bhairahawa area aims to control unrest and uphold law and order.
Sep 8, 2025 05:42 PM
Nepal opposition parties press for PM KP Sharma Oli’s resignation
Amid intensifying unrest, major opposition forces in Nepal — the CPN (Maoist Centre) and the CPN (Unified Socialist) — have demanded the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, calling for a political shift to address the ongoing crisis.
The wave of protests has triggered strict measures, with authorities imposing curfews in several cities, including Itahari and Rupandehi, to contain the growing demonstrations.
Sep 8, 2025 05:41 PM
Unrest spreads beyond Kathmandu, curfew imposed in several cities; army deployed
Sep 8, 2025 04:38 PM
Shoot-at-sight order issued as protesters set Parliament building gate on fire
Sep 8, 2025 03:41 PM
PM KP Sharma Oli calls For Cabinet meeting
Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has called a Cabinet meeting at 6 pm at his official residence in Baluwatar
Sep 8, 2025 03:41 PM
Sep 8, 2025 03:21 PM
As many as eight persons have been killed in Nepal Gen-Z protest, including five at Trauma centre and one at Kathmandu Medical Centre.
Sep 8, 2025 03:20 PM
As demonstrations continued in Kathmandu against the government’s ban on social media platforms, Nepal’s Gen-Z group issued an appeal urging protesters to disperse peacefully.
In a social media post, the group wrote: “There are too many vested groups rattling the mass. Please leave safely as soon as possible. We have already won the day. Let’s go home safely today.”
The appeal came amid growing concerns that outside influences could hijack the largely youth-driven protests.
Sep 8, 2025 03:19 PM
Why Nepal is blocking social media platforms like Facebook, X and YouTube
Nepal has moved to block major social media platforms, including Facebook, X, and YouTube, citing their failure to comply with government regulations requiring official registration.
Minister for Communication and Information Prithvi Subba Gurung said over 20 platforms widely used in Nepal were repeatedly notified to register but did not respond. As a result, access to them would be restricted immediately.
In contrast, TikTok, Viber, and three other platforms will continue operating in Nepal, as they have fulfilled the registration requirement.
The government has also been urging companies to set up a liaison office or official contact point within the country. In addition, a new bill introduced in parliament seeks to ensure that social media companies are properly regulated, accountable, and more responsive to national concerns.
Sep 8, 2025 03:18 PM
Why Gen-Z is protesting in Nepal
In Nepal, frustration is mounting among young citizens after the government blocked 26 unregistered social media platforms, rendering popular sites such as Facebook, YouTube, and X inaccessible since Friday. Instagram, which counts millions of Nepali users, is also among those affected—disrupting entertainment, news consumption, and online businesses. The move has triggered widespread outrage, and on Monday, thousands of young Nepalis poured into the streets of Kathmandu, demanding not only the restoration of social media platforms but also an end to the entrenched culture of corruption in the country.
PTC Web Desk: Thousands of young Nepalis took to the streets of Kathmandu on Monday, voicing strong opposition to the government’s decision to block social media platforms and demanding an end to systemic corruption in the country.
Since Friday, major platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X have been inaccessible in Nepal after authorities ordered a shutdown of 26 unregistered sites. The move sparked outrage among citizens, leaving millions of users, who depend on social media for business, news, and entertainment, frustrated. Popular apps like Instagram have also been affected.
Carrying national flags, the largely Gen-Z demonstrators began their protest by singing the national anthem, followed by chants condemning both the social media ban and entrenched corruption.
“We were triggered by the ban, but corruption is the larger issue we are fighting against,” said a protester. Another protester described the government’s action as an “authoritarian attitude,” adding, “We want change. Previous generations endured it, but ours will not.”
Interestingly, TikTok—still accessible in Nepal—has seen a surge in viral content, contrasting the struggles of ordinary citizens with the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children flaunting luxury goods and foreign holidays.
The government had earlier directed companies to register locally, appoint grievance officers, and comply with regulations following a Supreme Court order in 2023. In its Sunday statement, officials maintained that Nepal “respects freedom of thought and expression” and remains committed to ensuring a safe digital environment.
This is not the first time Nepal has restricted access to online platforms. In July, the Telegram messaging app was blocked over fraud and money laundering concerns, while TikTok had faced a nine-month suspension that was lifted last year after compliance with Nepali laws.