Nepal Protests Turn Deadly as Demonstrators Clash with Security Forces
In a violent escalation, at least 13 people have lost their lives and numerous others have been injured in Nepal following protests against a government-imposed ban on social media platforms. The demonstrations, organized by self-proclaimed Generation Z activists, drew thousands near the parliament building in Kathmandu, protesting the ban on popular platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube.
The Minister for Communication, Prithvi Subba, informed the BBC that security forces resorted to using force, employing water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets to control the situation. The government’s justification for the ban is the need to regulate social media to combat issues such as fake news, hate speech, and online fraud.
However, the move has sparked outrage among the millions of Nepali users who rely on these platforms for entertainment, news, and business. Protesters carried signs with messages like “enough is enough” and “end to corruption,” denouncing what they perceive as authoritarian actions by the government.
As the protest swelled near the parliament, some demonstrators breached into the restricted area, prompting law enforcement to respond with tear gas and water cannons. A curfew was subsequently imposed around the parliament building to maintain order.
Authorities had previously blocked 26 social media platforms for failing to register with Nepal’s ministry of communication and information technology, leading to disruptions in access for users. Despite the ban, some individuals are circumventing restrictions using VPNs. Two platforms have been reinstated after complying with registration requirements set by the ministry.
The Nepali government maintains that it is not banning social media but rather seeking to bring these platforms in line with local laws. The situation remains tense as protesters continue to demand the restoration of their online freedoms. — BBC
