
Tue Sep 09 08:25:39 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the article, followed by a rewritten version as a news article suitable for *The Hindu*:
**Summary:**
Nepal is experiencing widespread and violent protests, primarily led by Gen Z, sparked by a government ban on major social media platforms. The ban, implemented because the platforms failed to register locally and comply with content regulations, ignited long-simmering discontent among young Nepalis, who also cite corruption, lack of accountability, and limited economic opportunities as grievances. The protests resulted in casualties, curfews, and the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung. The government has revoked the social media ban. India has issued a travel advisory and increased security along its border.
**News Article for *The Hindu*:**
**Nepal PM Resigns Amidst Gen Z Protests Over Social Media Ban**
*Kathmandu, September 9, 2025* – Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday following two days of escalating protests led by the country’s Gen Z population. The unrest, triggered by a government ban on 26 major social media platforms, has left at least 19 dead and hundreds injured. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung also resigned.
The protests, which began peacefully on Monday, turned violent as demonstrators breached Parliament premises and targeted the homes of politicians in Kathmandu and other cities. Curfews were imposed after the situation deteriorated.
The immediate cause of the protests was the government’s decision on September 4th to block platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, X, and YouTube. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology stated the ban was due to the platforms’ failure to comply with requirements to register locally, appoint grievance officers, and remove flagged content.
Beyond the social media ban, the “Gen Z protests” reflect deeper frustrations among young Nepalis. Demonstrators have voiced concerns about corruption, nepotism, and a lack of accountability within the government. They have also highlighted limited employment opportunities and economic inequalities, fueled by a reliance on remittances. Demonstrators frequently used the phrase “nepo babies” to criticize perceived privilege within the political establishment.
“The protests were not formally aligned with political parties and were reportedly coordinated by Hami Nepal, a youth-focused non-profit established in 2015. Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, an independent politician, who won the mayoral elections through his active social media campaign has been vocal in supporting the protests.”
Security forces responded to the unrest with tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets. Protesters reportedly retaliated with sticks and bottles. At least 19 people have died, and over 400 have been injured.
Following an emergency cabinet meeting, the government revoked the social media ban. While expressing regret over the bloodshed, Prime Minister Oli blamed “infiltrators” for the violence. An investigation panel has been ordered to report on the causes of the unrest within 15 days.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has issued an advisory urging Indian nationals in Nepal to exercise caution. India has affirmed that it is closely monitoring the situation and has called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. Security has been heightened in Uttar Pradesh districts bordering Nepal.