Violent clashresulting in the death of nineteen individualsduring a protest organized by Generation Z in Kathmandu, following the imposition of a ban on social media.
In the heart of Kathmandu on a turbulent Monday, thousands of young people marched through the city streets, their voices echoing with demands for change. Carrying national flags and placards, they were part of a nationwide movement known as the "Gen Z Movement," primarily organised by students and young citizens from Generation Z across Nepal in September 2025.
The demonstrations, which also took place in Biratnagar, Bharatpur, and Pokhara, were met with a stern response from the authorities. As the protesters forced their way into the parliament compound by breaking through barricades, the district office spokesperson, Muktiram Rijal, confirmed that police were authorised to use water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets.
The clashes between the demonstrators and the riot police escalated rapidly, with protesters throwing objects and some reports suggesting that one protester was injured by police gunfire. Regrettably, at least 19 people were reported dead in the capital during the incident. Some protesters also set fire to an ambulance during the chaos.
The incident came amidst rising concerns over misinformation, data privacy, online harm, and national security, leading to Nepal's social media restrictions. Regulators insist stronger oversight is necessary to safeguard users and maintain public order, while critics warn such measures may suppress free expression.
As the curfew, extended until 10 p.m. local time, covers the Singha Durbar area, the army was deployed in protest areas to reinforce law enforcement. Protesters, however, continued to demonstrate their resilience, ferrying the wounded to hospitals on motorbikes during the incident.
Critics argue that corruption is endemic in Nepal, and Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli's government has been accused of failing to deliver on its pledges. Some of the placards read "Shut down corruption and not social media", "Unban social media", and "Youths against corruption", reflecting the protesters' determination to bring about change.
The global trend of governments tightening regulation of social media and Big Tech is evident in Nepal's move to restrict social media access. However, the Gen Z Movement in Nepal stands as a testament to the power of youth and their unwavering quest for a corruption-free future.
