Nepal has lifted a controversial nationwide social media ban after days of deadly unrest left at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured, government officials announced on Tuesday.
The ban, imposed last week, had restricted access to 26 major platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube. Authorities initially justified the move as necessary to curb “misinformation” and safeguard national security, but it quickly ignited widespread anger among young Nepalis.
What began as peaceful demonstrations led mostly by Generation Z students and professionals escalated into violent confrontations between protesters and security forces in Kathmandu and other major cities. Hospitals reported dozens of critical injuries, and rights groups accused the government of using excessive force.
Human rights organizations and foreign governments voiced strong concern. Amnesty International condemned the crackdown, while several diplomatic missions in Kathmandu urged Nepal to respect freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly.
Facing mounting pressure, the government announced the immediate restoration of access to social media platforms. “We have listened to the concerns of our people, especially the youth, and the restrictions have been lifted,” Information Minister Rekha Sharma said at a press briefing.
Still, protests have underscored deeper frustrations over corruption and lack of accountability in government. Demonstrators carried placards demanding reforms and accused leaders of trying to silence dissent rather than address systemic issues.
Analysts say the protests mark one of Nepal’s most significant youth-led political mobilizations in nearly two decades, revealing a generation unwilling to tolerate curbs on their digital freedoms. With more than 50 percent of Nepal’s population under the age of 30, experts warn the government will face renewed calls for reform long after the internet ban is forgotten.
For now, the lifting of the ban has been welcomed by protesters, but activists stress that accountability for the 19 lives lost remains a pressing demand.
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