NEWS DESK
Kathmandu, Nepal – At least 19 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in violent clashes as thousands of young Nepalis protested the government’s social media ban and rampant corruption.
Police used water cannons, batons, rubber bullets, and even live rounds as demonstrators forced their way into the Parliament complex in Kathmandu. Hospitals reported several protesters shot in the head and chest, while two more deaths were confirmed in the eastern city of Itahari.
The UN Human Rights Office condemned the violence, urging a transparent investigation. “We are shocked by the killings and injuries,” spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani said.
Gen Z Leads the Uprising
Dubbed “Gen Z demonstrations”, the protests have drawn students in uniforms and young workers demanding accountability. Placards read “Unban Social Media” and “Shut Down Corruption, Not Free Speech.”
“This protest is for our generation,” said 20-year-old student Ikshama Tumrok. “We want change.”
Analysts say the social media ban was just the spark. Frustrations over joblessness, corruption, and unstable governments have been building for years.
Government Under Pressure
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli imposed curfews across central Kathmandu, including near the Prime Minister’s Office, and deployed the army. His government blocked Facebook, YouTube, and X last week, citing fake news and fraud.
But critics accuse authorities of overreach. “The government treated unarmed students like criminals and used live fire,” said Anurag Acharya of Policy Entrepreneurs Inc.
As anger mounts, Nepal’s youth vow to continue their fight against corruption and censorship, making this one of the country’s largest youth-led movements in recent history.
