Kathmandu, Nepal Thousands of young Nepalis poured into the streets of Kathmandu on Monday, demanding the government reverse its recent social media ban and take decisive action against entrenched corruption.
The protests erupted after authorities blocked access to 26 unregistered platforms, including widely used apps such as Facebook, YouTube, and X. The ban, which began Friday, has left millions without access to key platforms they rely on for news, entertainment, and business. Instagram, one of Nepal’s most popular apps, has also been affected.
Carrying national flags, the mostly Generation Z demonstrators opened their rally with the national anthem before chanting slogans against censorship and political graft.
“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 student Ikshama Tumrok, condemned what she described as the government’s “authoritarian attitude.” She added, “We want to see change. Others have endured this, but it has to end with our generation.”
The unrest has been fueled further by viral TikTok videos comparing the financial struggles of ordinary citizens with the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children. TikTok remains accessible despite the crackdown.
“The government fears a people’s movement like those seen abroad,” said protester Bhumika Bharati.
Officials have defended the decision, saying the platforms must register in Nepal, appoint grievance officers, and comply with local regulations, in line with a Supreme Court order issued last year.
In a statement Sunday, the government insisted it respected freedom of expression and aimed to ensure “protection and unfettered use” of digital platforms once legal requirements were met.
Nepal has a history of restricting online services. In July, the government briefly blocked Telegram, citing rising cases of fraud and money laundering. TikTok itself was banned for nine months until it agreed to comply with Nepali laws in 2024.
