At least 17 protesters lost their lives on Monday after Nepal police clashed with demonstrators in Kathmandu. The young crowd had gathered to demand an end to the government’s ban on social media and to call for stronger action against corruption.
Since Friday, platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and X have been blocked in Nepal, along with 26 other unregistered sites. The restriction left millions of users frustrated and fueled widespread unrest. Demonstrators pushed through barbed wire near parliament, prompting police to use tear gas, rubber bullets, water cannons, and batons.
“Seventeen people have died,” police spokesman Shekhar Khanal confirmed, adding that nearly 400 were injured, including over 100 officers.
Why Did the Nepal Protests Turn Deadly?
The violence quickly escalated, leading to the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak at a cabinet meeting later that evening. Witness accounts revealed the brutality of the crackdown.
“I had been there for a peaceful protest, but the government used force,” said 20-year-old Iman Magar, who suffered a severe arm injury. “It was not a rubber bullet but a metallic one, and it took away a part of my hand. The doctor says I need to undergo an operation.”
Hospitals struggled to cope with the influx of victims. “I have never seen such a disturbing situation at the hospital,” said Civil Hospital information officer Ranjana Nepal. She described how tear gas entered hospital grounds, making it difficult for doctors to treat patients.
How Has the World Responded?
The United Nations condemned the violence, calling for an immediate and transparent investigation. “We are shocked by the killings and injury of protesters in Nepal today and urge a prompt and transparent investigation,” said UN rights office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani. Amnesty International echoed the demand, warning that live ammunition appeared to have been used.
Authorities imposed a strict curfew around key government areas, including parliament and the prime minister’s office, after protesters vandalized gates and entered restricted zones. Similar rallies were reported across several districts.
Why Are Young Nepalis Taking to the Streets?
Students and young citizens made up the core of the demonstrations. “We were triggered by the social media ban but that is not the only reason we are gathered here,” said 24-year-old student Yujan Rajbhandari. “We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalised in Nepal.”
Another protester, 20-year-old Ikshama Tumrok, said the movement was about ending authoritarianism. “We want to see change. Others have endured this, but it has to end with our generation.”
The protests also reflect deeper frustrations. Videos circulating on TikTok, which remains unblocked, highlight stark contrasts between ordinary Nepalis and the privileged children of politicians flaunting luxury lifestyles.
The government has insisted that social media platforms must register locally and appoint compliance officers. While officials maintain that they respect freedom of expression, Nepal’s repeated bans on apps like Telegram and TikTok have already drawn criticism.
By Yockshard Enyendi
