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Violence erupts in Nepal as youths confront police following a social media restriction; Home Minister Lekhak steps down

Clashes in Nepal resulting from social media restrictions result in 19 fatalities and 300 injuries, prompting the Home Minister's resignation.

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Violence erupts in Nepal after youths confront police over the prohibition of social media...
Violence erupts in Nepal after youths confront police over the prohibition of social media platforms; Minister of Home Affairs, Lekhak, steps down following the incident

Violence erupts in Nepal as youths confront police following a social media restriction; Home Minister Lekhak steps down

In a dramatic turn of events, Kathmandu, Nepal, witnessed violent protests on September 8, 2025, as thousands of youths, including school students, took to the streets in front of the Parliament in Kathmandu. The protests were sparked by the government's decision to ban 26 social media sites, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube, for failing to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.

Under the banner of Gen Z, the protesters demanded the resumption of the social media sites, expressing concerns about the government's decision as an attack on free speech and a potential for censorship. Another group of youngsters, known as "Nepo Kid", also joined the protests on various social media platforms.

The Nepali Army was deployed in the capital to take control of the roads surrounding the parliament complex, and a curfew was imposed in several parts of the capital, including Lalitpur district, Pokhara, Butwal, and Itahari of Sunsarai district. The curfew order included a ban on movement of people, demonstrations, meetings, gatherings, or sit-ins in the restricted zone.

However, the government later withdrew its decision to ban social media sites following an emergency meeting of the Cabinet. The Ministry of Information has ordered the concerned agencies to start the process of resuming the social media sites as per the demands of the 'Gen Z'.

Prime Minister Oli stated that his government would oppose anomalies and arrogance and would never accept any act that undermines the nation. He also expressed his grief over the deaths and alleged infiltration by unwanted elements in the peaceful demonstration. At least 19 people were killed and over 300 others injured during the protests.

Hospitals across Nepal are treating at least 347 injured protesters. Dozens of journalists demonstrated in Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu, protesting the government's decision to ban 26 social media platforms.

The Computer Association of Nepal (CAN) stated that shutting down important platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube all at once can have a serious impact on education, business, communication, and the daily lives of ordinary citizens.

A probe committee has been formed to submit its report within 15 days on the violent actions by youths against the government's ban on social media in Nepal. The exact composition of the investigation commission is not available from the provided sources.

Prime Minister Oli further clarified that his government is not against social media, but it cannot accept those doing business in Nepal and not complying with the law. The curfew was later extended to various areas surrounding Rastrapati Bhawan, the Vice-President's residence, and the Prime Minister's Office.

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