Mon Sep 08 16:34:38 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Massive protests erupted in Kathmandu, Nepal, led by Gen-Z demonstrators angered by a government ban on social media apps and widespread corruption. The protests turned violent, resulting in at least 19 deaths, including a 12-year-old, and over 300 injuries. The army was deployed, and curfews were extended to high-security zones. Protesters clashed with police, who used water cannons, teargas, and rubber bullets. The government is considering lifting the social media ban, and the Home Minister resigned. The ban stemmed from a requirement for social media companies to register in Nepal and comply with local regulations, but protesters see it as an attack on free expression.

**News Article:**

**Kathmandu Gripped by Deadly Protests Over Social Media Ban and Corruption**

KATHMANDU, Nepal – At least 19 people are dead and over 300 injured following violent clashes in Kathmandu between security forces and protesters demanding an end to a government ban on social media apps and action against pervasive corruption. The unrest prompted the deployment of the army, the resignation of the Home Minister, and the imposition of extended curfews across the capital.

The protests, largely driven by Gen-Z demonstrators, erupted after the government blocked access to 26 unregistered social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X. The move sparked outrage, with protesters accusing the government of stifling free expression and failing to address rampant corruption.

“We were triggered by the social media ban, but that is not the only reason we are gathered here,” said Yujan Rajbhandari, a 24-year-old student. “We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalized in Nepal.”

The demonstrations turned violent as protesters defied curfew restrictions and attempted to enter restricted zones near Parliament. Police responded with water cannons, teargas, and rubber bullets. Reports indicate that two people were injured by rubber bullets, including a journalist covering the protests.

The Kathmandu District Administration Office has extended the curfew to include high-security areas such as the President’s and Prime Minister’s residences. Similar protests have spread to other parts of the country, including Pokhara, where a curfew has also been imposed.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli convened an emergency cabinet meeting to address the crisis. Sources indicate the government is likely to lift the ban on social media apps in response to the widespread unrest. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned during the meeting.

The government claims the ban was implemented because the affected companies failed to register in Nepal and comply with local regulations, following a Supreme Court order. However, protesters view the ban as an attempt to suppress dissent and control information, especially after videos highlighting the wealth disparity between ordinary citizens and the families of politicians went viral.

The situation remains tense, and the government’s response in the coming days will be crucial in de-escalating the crisis and addressing the underlying grievances of the protesters.

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