Protests on the streets of Nepal result in tragic loss of life as 19 people are killed in opposition to the ruling administration.

In the heart of Nepal, protests have erupted in response to the government's decision to block 26 online networks. The decision, made last week, has sparked nationwide unrest, with the epicentre of the protests taking place in Kathmandu.

The Kathmandu Post and other local media report that the police have used water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition against protesters, leading to several fatalities and injuries. In Kathmandu alone, over 17 people have lost their lives, and many more have been injured. Across the nation, at least 19 people have been reported dead due to the protests.

The protests are primarily against the government's decision to block these online networks, with protesters criticising the move as an infringement on their freedom of speech and expression. The younger generation, aged around 18 to 30, are reportedly leading the protests.

The government's accusation is that these platforms did not register properly, but the current approach to controlling them is strongly criticised as an expansion of the government's control rather than regulation. The protests have also highlighted the issue of increasing corruption in the state.

In a surprising turn of events, Interior Minister Ramesh Lekhak has reportedly resigned during a cabinet meeting in the evening hours (local time). However, no resignations during the cabinet meeting were reported in the provided sources, and no individual's name was mentioned as having resigned from any government position during such an event.

The protests have also spread to the eastern city of Itahari, where two people were reportedly killed in clashes due to these protests. Over 100 people, including police officers, have been injured in these protests nationwide.

The Supreme Court ordered in August that the affected online services should be placed under state supervision to combat misinformation online. However, the current situation raises questions about the balance between regulation and freedom of speech in the digital age.

As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that the protests in Nepal are a significant expression of dissent against the government's decisions and a call for greater transparency and accountability.