Mon Sep 08 08:26:12 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Thousands of Nepali youth protested in Kathmandu against the government’s ban on several social media platforms and the widespread corruption in the country. The ban, affecting platforms like Facebook and X, has angered users who rely on them for various purposes. Protesters, mainly from Generation Z, voiced their frustration with the government’s authoritarian tendencies and the contrast between the struggles of ordinary citizens and the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children. The government claims the ban is due to unregistered platforms failing to comply with local regulations, but protesters believe it’s an attempt to stifle dissent and prevent movements against corruption.
**News Article:**
**Nepali Youth Rise Up Against Social Media Ban and Corruption in Kathmandu Protest**
Kathmandu, Nepal – Thousands of young Nepalis took to the streets of Kathmandu on Monday, demanding the government lift its recent ban on several social media platforms and address the pervasive culture of corruption gripping the nation. The protest, largely driven by Generation Z, comes after the government blocked access to 26 unregistered social media sites, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, leaving millions of users in Nepal cut off from vital communication and business tools.
“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.”
Demonstrators, waving Nepali flags and chanting slogans, accused the government of authoritarianism and attempting to silence dissent. The ban has sparked particular outrage as videos highlighting the stark contrast between the everyday struggles of Nepalis and the opulent lifestyles of politicians’ children have gone viral on TikTok, which remains accessible.
The government defends the ban, citing a Supreme Court order and claiming that the affected companies have failed to register in Nepal and appoint local representatives for grievance handling and compliance. A government statement released Sunday reiterated its commitment to freedom of expression but stressed the need for platforms to adhere to local regulations.
However, protesters believe the ban is a calculated move to suppress potential movements against corruption. “There have been movements abroad against corruption and they (the government) are afraid that might happen here as well,” explained protester Bhumika Bharati.
This is not the first time the Nepali government has restricted access to online platforms. A ban on Telegram was implemented earlier this year, and TikTok was previously banned for nine months before being reinstated after the platform agreed to comply with Nepali regulations. The ongoing protest underscores a growing frustration among young Nepalis with government policies and a demand for greater transparency and accountability. The situation remains tense as protesters vow to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met.
First Piper 