Youth-Led Protests Against Corruption, Not Social Media Ban: What’s Really Happening In Nepal
Nepal is witnessing its most serious unrest in years after the government blocked access to 26 social media and online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
According to The Himalayan Times, at least 18 people have been killed and over 200 injured as demonstrations spread from the capital to other regions. Sixteen deaths were reported in Kathmandu Valley and two in Itahari.
Officials say the restrictions were introduced over tax and registration disputes, but protesters argue the move is an attempt to curb free expression. Critics allege the ban is designed to silence online dissent and punish those who challenge government policies.
While the official narrative centres on digital access, locals insist the unrest is fueled by much deeper issues. A widely circulated Reddit post from a Nepali citizen described the ban as “only the spark,” pointing instead to decades of corruption, nepotism, and inequality.
The post highlighted how a viral online trend called “Nepo Babies” exposed the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children, from luxury cars to foreign holidays — in stark contrast to the struggles of ordinary citizens. Many questioned how political families flaunt wealth while the prime minister’s official salary is under ₹65,000 a month.
Unlike past political agitations, this protest was not reportedly driven by any party or interest group. Organisers and participants emphasise that it was a grassroots, Gen Z–led movement calling for transparency, accountability, and an end to decades of corruption and nepotism.
Demonstrators insist the protests were always intended to be peaceful. Students in school uniforms, still carrying their bags, were among those in the crowd, symbolising the youthful face of the movement.
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The post said that the violence erupted after a group of individuals — described by locals as possible “infiltrators” — attempted to storm the federal parliament.
This triggered a harsh police response. Security forces reportedly opened fire on the crowd, with disturbing accounts of students being shot in the head.
The government quickly imposed a curfew, but it has done little to calm the situation. Protests have continued despite restrictions, fueled by anger over the loss of young lives and the use of force against unarmed demonstrators.
Earlier reports suggested the protests were sparked by the government’s ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
However, participants on the ground stress that the true motive was never about digital access but rather a demand to end systemic corruption, inequality, and decades of political mismanagement.
Protesters are now demanding the resignation of the prime minister and the government, accusing leaders of betraying public trust and failing to deliver stability. Nepal has not seen a prime minister complete a full term in over 20 years, fueling disillusionment among citizens, particularly the youth.
Demonstrators also point to years of political instability, noting that no prime minister has completed a full term in over two decades. This lack of continuity has left citizens frustrated with weak governance and unfulfilled promises.
Adding to the anger is Nepal’s jobs crisis. Nearly 5,000 young people reportedly leave the country every day in search of work abroad due to the lack of employment and decent wages at home. Protesters are demanding not just the restoration of social media but also greater accountability, transparency, and systemic reform.
Social media posts say the demonstrations are no longer about digital freedom alone but about citizens’ right to challenge corruption and demand better governance.
