What Led to the Fatal Clash During Nepal's Gen Z Protests?
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Synopsis
Tragedy struck in Kathmandu as Gen Z protests against government corruption and social media bans turned deadly, with at least eight casualties reported. The situation escalated quickly, drawing national attention and raising questions about governance and youth activism.
Key Takeaways
- Eight fatalities reported amidst protests in Kathmandu.
- Protests were driven by youth discontent over social media bans.
- Government enforced a curfew and deployed military forces.
- Violence resulted in hundreds of injuries.
- Calls for accountability from social media platforms escalated tensions.
Kathmandu, Sep 8 (NationPress) Tragically, at least eight individuals have lost their lives amid escalating protests led by Gen Z in opposition to perceived corruption and the government's controversial decision to impose a ban on social media in Kathmandu, Nepal, this past Monday, as reported by local media.
Hundreds of demonstrators assembled at Maitighar to express their frustration over the ban, which has sparked widespread discontent among the youth of Nepal.
However, the protests quickly escalated when demonstrators breached restricted areas, storming the Federal Parliament located in New Baneshwor.
In response, authorities swiftly enforced a curfew in several key locations and deployed the Nepali Army to manage the unrest.
Security forces utilized tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and even engaged in aerial firing in an urgent attempt to disperse the crowds. Despite these measures, confrontations between protesters and security personnel intensified.
Initial reports indicate that five of the deceased individuals succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at the Trauma Centre, two at Civil Hospital, and one at Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal. Some victims have been identified, while others await confirmation, as reported by the leading Nepalese publication, The Himalayan Times.
The violence resulted in hundreds of injuries, affecting not only protesters but also journalists and security personnel, with many requiring hospital treatment across Kathmandu.
Several individuals remain in critical condition.
Officials described the atmosphere in Baneshwor as “highly tense,” asserting that protesters pelted stones at police and forced their way into the Parliament compound before being repelled.
The government declared that the curfew would remain active until 10 p.m., covering areas from Baneshwor Chowk to Bijuli Bazaar bridge in the west, Tinkune Chowk in the east, Ratna Rajya School in the north, and Shankhamul bridge in the south.
In light of these events, Nepalese Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli remarked that his administration does not oppose social platforms but stands against “lawlessness, arrogance, and undermining the nation.”
“I hear of a planned 'Gen Z rebellion.' We are not against platforms or social networks – but we oppose lawlessness, arrogance, and belittling of our country. For a year, we've urged social networks to register under Nepal's law, pay taxes, and be accountable,” Oli stated, emphasizing that the companies failed to comply with regulatory requirements.
On August 25, the Nepal Cabinet mandated all social media operators to register within seven days under the Directive on Regulating the Use of Social Media, 2023, with the deadline ending on September 3, according to The Kathmandu Post.
Following the deadline, on September 4, the Nepal government proceeded to block all unregistered social media platforms that had not communicated with the ministry.
Post-directive, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) announced the shutdown of 26 platforms, including 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
The current unrest in Nepal reflects deep-seated frustrations among the youth regarding governance and accountability. While the government's responses aim to maintain order, they must also consider the voices and concerns of the younger generation. A balanced approach is essential for fostering dialogue and preventing further escalation.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests in Kathmandu?
The protests were triggered by allegations of government corruption and a controversial ban on social media, which sparked outrage among the youth.
How many people were killed during the protests?
At least eight individuals lost their lives during the violent clashes.
What measures did the government take to control the situation?
The government imposed a curfew and deployed the Nepali Army to manage the unrest, while security forces used tear gas and rubber bullets.
What was the government's stance on the social media ban?
The government asserted that they are not against social media platforms but oppose lawlessness and demand compliance with national laws.
Which social media platforms were affected by the ban?
The ban affected several platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp, among others.
