Nepal Lifts Social Media Ban After Deadly Protests

Tue Sep 23 2025 13:44:20 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Following violent protests in Kathmandu that resulted in at least 19 deaths, Nepal's government has lifted the ban on major social media platforms including Facebook, X, and YouTube.

Nepal has lifted its ban on social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, just one day after violent protests left 19 people dead. The protests erupted following an attempt by the government to regulate social media, which was criticized as an infringement on free speech. Amidst calls for accountability and an end to censorship, unrest continues in the country as officials navigate the delicate balance of online governance and public sentiment.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — In a significant development, Nepal's government has lifted its ban on popular social media platforms just one day after violent protests resulted in at least 19 fatalities. The ban had been imposed on major platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube amid widespread demonstrations in the capital city of Kathmandu, which escalated on Monday.

Authorities used live ammunition against demonstrators who were protesting against a controversial government proposal aimed at regulating social media. These regulations required that various social networks officially register and comply with government oversight, a move the public regarded as an attempt to stifle dissent.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned shortly after the protests, which saw tens of thousands rally around the Parliament, voicing their discontent towards the government's restrictions. Many decried the legislation as a blatant attempt at censorship aimed at silencing critics of the ruling party.

The proposed regulations would demand that social media companies appoint local representatives to handle governmental communications, reigniting fears of state control over free expression. Critics have argued that this could result in harsher penalties for citizens who voice their grievances online.

Although platforms like TikTok, Viber, and others have been operational without disruption, the handling of this situation by the government has drawn severe backlash. Hundreds of protesters were treated for injuries, with many victims reporting gunfire wounds to critical areas such as the head and chest.

The protests dubbed 'Gen Z protests' were characterized by chants of 'Stop the ban on social media. Stop corruption, not social media,' which encapsulated the generation’s concerns over oppressive governance and the need for freedom of speech.

While Nepal has a history of imposing temporary bans on social media, including a prior ban on TikTok for promoting indecency, the latest incidents have underscored a growing apprehension about governmental control of online platforms.

As the situation evolves, rights groups continue to monitor Nepal's legislative moves with skepticism, calling for a reevaluation of policies that affect essential rights to free expression.