Nepal’s government has lifted a ban on social media platforms following violent protests that resulted in at least 19 deaths. The ban, which affected major platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, was enacted last week in response to a series of escalating demonstrations in the capital, Kathmandu. The decision to reverse the ban came a day after police opened fire on protesters, leaving over 100 injured during what has been described as the “Gen Z” protests.
Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung announced the lifting of the social media ban on Tuesday, stating, “We have withdrawn the shutdown of the social media. They are working now.” By the morning of October 3, 2023, all banned applications were accessible again within Nepal. In the wake of the unrest, authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in the Kathmandu area, restricting gatherings and public assemblies.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed sorrow over the violence, attributing it to “infiltration from different selfish centres.” He pledged government assistance for the families of those killed and promised free medical treatment for the injured. Additionally, he announced the formation of an investigation panel to assess the situation and propose measures to prevent future incidents within 15 days.
The unrest began with large-scale protests surrounding the parliament building, where tens of thousands of demonstrators voiced their frustrations over the government’s failure to regulate social media companies effectively. The government is currently pursuing legislation aimed at ensuring that social media platforms operate in a manner that is “properly managed, responsible and accountable.” Critics argue that this proposed bill is a means of censorship and could suppress dissenting voices online.
The protests intensified after the government issued notices to approximately two dozen popular social networks operating in Nepal, demanding they officially register in the country. Many of these platforms were blocked after failing to comply. Neither Google, which owns YouTube, nor Meta (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram), responded to inquiries regarding the situation.
The National Trauma Centre, Nepal’s main hospital, reported that seven of the deceased and many of the injured suffered serious gunshot wounds. Dr. Badri Risa stated that patients received treatment for injuries primarily to the head and chest. Families anxiously gathered outside the hospital, awaiting updates on their loved ones, while others lined up to donate blood.
Amid the turmoil, demonstrators chanted slogans such as, “Stop the ban on social media. Stop corruption, not social media,” as they waved the national flag. The government’s proposed legislation would require tech companies to appoint a local liaison office to ensure compliance with local laws. Rights organizations have condemned this move, viewing it as an infringement on freedom of expression and fundamental rights.
In a separate incident earlier this year, Nepal briefly banned TikTok for allegedly disrupting social harmony. This ban was lifted in 2024 after TikTok committed to adhering to local regulations.
The ongoing developments in Nepal highlight the tension between government authority and social media freedom, raising significant questions about the future of digital expression in the country.
