Social Media Ban Nepal Youth Protests
By Asmita - Sep 08, 2025
Anger among the youth in Nepal mounts as protests intensify against the government's social media ban, leading to clashes with police, injuries, deaths, and curfews in Kathmandu. The ban stemmed from social media platforms' failure to meet registration requirements, prompting authorities to block access. Protesters demand ban lift and action against corruption, as opposition voices criticize the move for stifling freedoms and feeding public unrest.

Prime Minister of Nepal, Mr. K.P Sharma Oli via Flickr
In Nepal, there has been a surge of anger among the youth against the government's social media ban. On September 4, the ,[object Object], imposed a ban on 26 social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. This decision sparked widespread protests across the country, especially in Kathmandu, where thousands of young people took to the streets. The protests escalated from just opposing the social media ban to voicing discontent against government corruption and restrictions on freedom of expression. Protesters gathered outside the parliament building and clashed violently with the police. Law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and baton charges to control the crowds, resulting in multiple injuries and several deaths among the youth.
The protests became so intense that authorities imposed a curfew in Kathmandu and other sensitive government areas, including the Prime Minister's residence and the parliament zone. Police and military forces were deployed to manage the unrest. Protesters even occupied entry gates to the parliament complex for the first time in Nepal's history. The youth demanded the lifting of the social media ban and strict action against corruption. As of now, at least six people have died and many more wounded in the violent confrontations. The government responded with firm measures including extended curfews and strict security enforcement.
The government defended the ban by stating that social media platforms failed to comply with registration requirements. The platforms were asked to register locally, establish contact points, grievance officers, and mechanisms to prevent misinformation and fraud. Since the deadline passed without compliance, authorities ordered the ,[object Object], to block access to the non-compliant sites. ,[object Object],, Viber, and a few other platforms complied and remained accessible. However, opposition leaders and protesters argue that the move is a mask for suppressing youth voices and controlling information flow. The ban has disrupted social, commercial, and communication activities for millions, aggravating public anger.
The youth-led protests have shaken Nepal's political environment. The breach of the parliament compound by demonstrators led to escalating tensions and the deployment of army personnel. Protesters characterize their movement as a struggle against entrenched corruption and authoritarian governance. Calls for reform and accountability echo strongly across the country. With curfews and heightened security still in effect, uncertainty remains about how the government will address the protesters' demands and whether the social media restrictions will be reconsidered.