Why Are Gen Z in Nepal Protesting Against Social Media Bans?
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Synopsis
In Kathmandu, Gen Z youths are rising up against social media bans imposed by the government, igniting protests and a curfew. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli defends the ban, claiming it's necessary for national integrity. What sparked this rebellion, and how are young people responding? Dive into the unfolding story of youth activism in Nepal.
Key Takeaways
- Youths are actively protesting against government policies.
- The government imposed a curfew in response to escalating tensions.
- Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli defends the ban on social media.
- Protests highlight a growing youth movement in Nepal.
- Social media regulations are at the center of the conflict.
Kathmandu, Sep 8 (NationPress) Youths from Gen Z organized protests in Nepal on Monday, expressing their outrage against alleged corruption and the government's decision to prohibit social media platforms, resulting in the imposition of a curfew, according to local media reports. Demonstrators assembled at Maitighar in Kathmandu to voice their discontent with the government's actions, while Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli defended the ban on social media sites.
Online hashtags such as 'Nepo Kid' and 'Nepo Babies' have gained traction in Nepal recently, especially after the Oli-led government's decision to block unregistered platforms, as reported by 'The Kathmandu Post'.
The rally was organized by 'Hami Nepal', which had sought prior approval from the Kathmandu District Administration Office.
Chairperson Sudhan Gurung stated that the protest aimed to respond to the government's actions and corruption, noting that similar demonstrations would take place across the nation.
Organizers utilized social media to disseminate information on protest routes and safety measures, encouraging students to attend the rallies in their uniforms while carrying books.
The Nepali Army was deployed in New Baneshwor after tensions escalated during the protest.
A curfew was enforced following an incident where protesters breached restricted zones and entered the Federal Parliament premises.
Earlier, security forces employed tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and even aerial shots to disperse the demonstrators, as reported by 'The Himalayan Times'.
Despite this, clashes between protesters and security personnel persisted.
The curfew extends from Baneshwor Chowk to Bijuli Bazaar bridge (to the west), Tinkune Chowk (to the east), Ratna Rajya School (to the north), and Shankhamul bridge (to the south), remaining in effect until 10 P.M.
Authorities described the situation in Baneshwor as 'highly tense', emphasizing that protesters had thrown stones at police and entered the Parliament premises before being expelled.
In response to the Gen Z protests, PM Oli stated that his administration is not against social media platforms, but rather against 'lawlessness, arrogance, and disrespect towards our nation.' He mentioned that the government had instructed social media networks to register and pay taxes in accordance with Nepalese law, but these companies failed to comply.
He elaborated, 'I hear of a planned 'Gen Z rebellion.' We are not against platforms or social networks; we are against lawlessness, arrogance, and belittling our country. For over a year, we urged social networks: Register under Nepal’s law, pay taxes, and be accountable. They responded, 'We don’t know your constitution.' Then intellectuals lament about four jobs lost. Are four jobs more significant than national self-respect? For the sake of self-respect, perhaps four jobs can be sacrificed for a few days, but new opportunities will arise. They cannot be operators, managers, and consumers simultaneously.'
On August 25, the Nepal Cabinet mandated that all social media operators must register within seven days under the Directive on Regulating the Use of Social Media, 2023. The deadline expired on September 3, leading the Nepal government to block all unregistered social media platforms on September 4 after they failed to contact the ministry.
Following the directive, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) released a list of 26 platforms set to be shut down, which included Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, X, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Reddit, Discord, Pinterest, Signal, Threads, WeChat, Quora, Tumblr, Clubhouse, Mastodon, Rumble, VK, Line, IMO, Zalo, Soul, and Hamro Patro.
Point of View
It's crucial to maintain a balanced perspective on the ongoing protests in Nepal. While the youth's frustrations regarding the government's actions are valid, it is equally important to understand the government's rationale behind imposing social media regulations. This situation underscores the need for dialogue between the authorities and the younger generation to foster a more inclusive approach to governance.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests in Nepal?
The protests were triggered by the government's decision to ban unregistered social media platforms amid allegations of corruption.
What measures did the government take during the protests?
The government imposed a curfew in affected areas and deployed the Nepali Army to maintain order.
What is Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s stance on social media?
PM Oli claims the government is not against social media but is enforcing laws requiring platforms to register and pay taxes.
How has the youth responded to the government's actions?
The youth have organized protests, using social media to mobilize support and express their dissent against the government's decisions.
Which social media platforms were blocked?
The government blocked several platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, for failing to register under the new directive.
