Nepal’s government has lifted a ban on around two dozen social media platforms following nationwide protests that left at least 19 people dead, marking the country’s worst unrest in decades.
The decision was announced by Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung after an emergency cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The ban, imposed last week on platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube, had triggered widespread anger and mass demonstrations led largely by Generation Z.
Protests erupted in Kathmandu and other cities over what many saw as government censorship, compounded by frustrations over corruption and lack of economic opportunities. Hospital officials confirmed 17 deaths in the capital and two more in Itahari.
Rights groups condemned the crackdown, with the UN human rights office calling the killings “shocking” and urging a transparent investigation. Amnesty International warned that the use of lethal force against unarmed demonstrators violated international law.
Videos circulating online showed security forces using water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition outside parliament in Kathmandu.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed sadness over the loss of life, but alleged that “vested interest groups” had infiltrated the demonstrations. He insisted his government was not opposed to the demands raised by young protesters.
Public anger against corruption remains widespread in Nepal, with critics accusing Oli’s administration of failing to address the issue effectively.
