Nepal has lifted its controversial ban on social media platforms after days of mass protests that left at least 19 people dead and more than 100 others injured.
The government announced the reversal late Monday night after an emergency cabinet meeting, saying it was done to “address the demands of Gen Z.”
The ban, which blocked 26 platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, was imposed last week after the companies failed to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Officials had justified the move as part of efforts to curb fake news, hate speech, and online fraud.
But the restrictions triggered anger nationwide, particularly among young people, who accused the government of authoritarianism and corruption.
On Monday, thousands of protesters stormed parliament in the capital Kathmandu, while clashes between demonstrators and police left dozens bloodied. Security forces used water cannons, rubber bullets, and batons to disperse crowds.
Several districts are now under a strict curfew. The protests were fueled by a viral “nepo kid” campaign that spotlighted the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children and allegations of corruption in high places.
“Rather than [the] social media ban, I think everyone’s focus is on corruption,” said protester Sabana Budathoki, speaking to the BBC. “We want our country back. We came to stop corruption.”
Some demonstrators hurled stones at Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s residence in his hometown of Damak.
In a televised address, the Prime Minister said he was “deeply saddened” by the deaths and blamed the unrest on “infiltration by various vested interest groups.” He also announced the formation of a panel to investigate the violence and pledged financial relief for victims’ families and free treatment for the injured.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned Monday evening amid mounting criticism over the government’s heavy-handed response to the demonstrations.
SOURCE: BBC NEWS
