Nepal Gen Z protest Highlights: 19 killed in violence; govt forms committee to investigate facts

Following the violence, the local administration imposed a curfew in several parts of the capital. Besides Kathmandu, curfew orders were issued in Lalitpur district, Pokhara, Butwal and Itahari of Sunsarai district. No movement of people, demonstration, meeting, gathering or sit-in will be allowed in the restricted zone,  Chief District Officer Chhabi Lal Rijal said in a notice.

The Indian agencies have tightened the security several districts of Uttar Pradesh that share their borders with Nepal following violent youth-led protests in the Himalayan nation. 

In response to ongoing violent clashes sparked by the Nepal government's recent ban on certain mobile applications, all schools in Kathmandu will remain closed on Tuesday. The decision comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff amid escalating tensions in the capital. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm while security forces work to restore order.

Nepal's government announced on Thursday that it is banning most social media platforms for failing to comply with local regulations requiring them to officially register within the country. This new order will block up to 26 platforms, including major services like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube. Click here to read more.

A meeting of top leaders of the ruling party CPN-UML and Nepali Congress was held at the Prime Minister's residence in Baluwatar immediately after the cabinet meeting. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba participated in the meeting. A minister told Nepal Press that a conclusion will be drawn from the discussion on reactivating social media in the meeting. He said that no decision was taken on this issue in the previous cabinet meeting.

The Nepali government has formed a committee to investigate the facts of the incident that arose from the Gen-Z protest. A minister informed that the cabinet meeting held on Monday evening decided to form an investigation committee with a deadline of 15 days. He said, "It has not been decided who will be the co-ordinator and members of the investigation committee. It will probably be finalized by tomorrow."

As the protest against a ban on social media platforms turned violent in Nepal, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's house in his hometown Damak was also attacked by the agitators on Monday, according to a local media report. Click here to read more. 

According to the Nepali government, 19 people have lost their lives, while 347 were injured in the violence on Monday.

The death count in Nepal has now risen to 19. 

Nepal Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has offered to resign from his position. In a party meeting, he said: "Unimaginable loss, I resign on moral grounds."

Violent protests erupted in Nepal's capital Kathmandu and other areas on Monday over the government's decision to ban social media. The protests prompted the government to deploy the army and additional forces, and issue shoot-at-sight orders, which ultimately led to the death of 18 people, while dozens have been injured. Click here to read more.

Protesters in Damak hurled stones at Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s house, expressing strong dissent against his government. Demonstrators also blocked the crucial East-West Highway by burning tyres, severely disrupting traffic. In response to the escalating tension, police fired warning shots to disperse the crowd and restore order, as the situation remained tense in the area.

At least 256 people have been injured in the violence during Nepal's Gen Z protest.

The death count in Nepal's Gen Z protest stands at 18 now, as per the country's government. 

A protestor, Susmita Khadka, said when a protest turns violent, it creates a 'cobra effect'. "I wish there were more organised banners, collective sit-ins where people actually ask for our opinions and listen to our needs," she told Nepal Times.

A protester, Ronesh Pradhan, said the youth in the country are ready to lead Nepal and take the nation forward. "The voices of young people matter. We can’t keep being ruled by the same old men. Our generation is the future and if there are older leaders in government, they need to be competent and accountable. We are ready to lead this country forward," Pradhan was quoted as saying by Nepal Times.

According to Nepal Times, the death count stands at 15. 

Visuals from Kathmandu where violet protest erupted earlier today.

Thousands of Gen Z protesters on Monday took to the streets in Kathmandu to vent their anger against a decision by authorities to block most social media platforms, including Facebook, X and YouTube, stating that the companies had failed to register and submit to government oversight. One died and several others were injured in the violent protest. Click here to read more.

The Nepal government has officially banned companies that did not comply with registration requirements, as part of its recent crackdown on social media platforms. Authorities stated that these companies were given multiple notices to complete their official registration within the country but failed to do so. Meanwhile, popular platforms like TikTok, Viber, and three others that have completed their registration are allowed to continue operating without restrictions.

Nepal government on Thursday banned social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, among others, for failing to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology within the given deadline. Click here to see the pictures.

In Kathmandu, heavy police deployment was seen following intense clashes between protesters and security forces. The protests erupted in response to the government’s ban on major social media platforms, sparking widespread unrest and demands for freedom of expression. Security personnel were deployed in large numbers across key areas to control the situation and prevent further violence. The confrontation between demonstrators and law enforcement led to heightened tensions throughout the city.

Tensions have escalated in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, following the government’s decision to impose a ban on major social media platforms. The move has triggered widespread anger among citizens, especially the youth, who have taken to the streets demanding freedom of expression. Protesters carrying banners and placards clashed with security forces in several parts of the city. In response, authorities have deployed heavy police presence in key areas to maintain order and prevent further unrest.

Curfew has been imposed in Butwal, Bhairahawa, and Itahari as protests led by Gen Z demonstrators escalate across Nepal. The district administrations of Rupandehi and Sunsari have enforced strict restrictions in designated areas, including a ban on public gatherings, rallies, and sit-ins, in response to the growing unrest. Authorities cited public safety and prevention of violence as key reasons for the curfew, as the demonstrations intensified over the past few days.

The Kathmandu District Administration Office has imposed a curfew in and around New Baneshwar after clashes between Gen Z protesters and police.

At least 14 people were killed and 42 injured as violent protests erupted in Kathmandu following the government’s decision to impose a ban on major social media platforms. Clashes broke out between protestors and security forces, with several areas witnessing arson and stone-pelting. Authorities have increased security deployment across the capital as tensions remain high.

At least 14 people were killed and 42 injured as violent protests erupted in Kathmandu following the government’s decision to impose a ban on major social media platforms. Clashes broke out between protestors and security forces, with several areas witnessing arson and stone-pelting. Authorities have increased security deployment across the capital as tensions remain high.

In response to the escalating situation in Nepal, a curfew has been imposed in Pokhara, the country’s second-largest city. Authorities have also instructed to increase vigilance along the India-Nepal border. Sources reveal that the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has stepped up security measures at the border, where they are currently deployed to ensure safety and maintain order.

During the Gen G movement, 14 people have lost their lives, including one protester who died inside the Parliament building in New Baneshwor. According to police sources, 13 others who were injured and hospitalized also succumbed to their injuries. The highest number of deaths occurred at the National Trauma Center with six fatalities, followed by three each at Everest Hospital and Civil Hospital, and one each at KMC Sinamangal and Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. Numerous members of the armed forces, police, and protesters have been injured, though their exact numbers remain unknown.

A protester reported that police opened fire during the protest, saying, “Earlier, police fired bullets that missed me but struck a friend standing behind me in the hand. The gunfire continues, and we can hear shots coming from inside the Parliament as well. Another friend, who was on the road, was shot in the head. The police are firing indiscriminately, aiming above the knees. Are they allowed to do this?” the protester told the media.

Riot police clashed with protesters outside the Parliament building in Kathmandu as tensions escalated. The security forces stood firm, using crowd control measures to manage the increasingly volatile situation. The protests have turned confrontational, with authorities working to maintain order amid rising unrest.

The Nepal Army has been deployed to maintain law and order in protest-affected areas of Kathmandu, a government spokesperson confirmed. The move comes as authorities seek to control escalating tensions and restore peace amid ongoing demonstrations.

A cabinet meeting has started in Nepal regarding the ongoing protests. The meeting includes the Chief of the Department of Foreign Affairs, former Deputy Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister Raghuvir Mahaseth. The meeting is expected to last about two hours. According to officials, the situation is expected to come under control, and after two hours, there will be more clarity on the government’s stance and the overall situation.

Protesters vandalised the Parliament gate as the protest turned violent in Kathmandu, as people staged a massive protest against the ban on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and other social media sites, leading to clashes between police and protesters.

A protester in Kathmandu voiced concern after a planned peaceful demonstration against corruption escalated into violence. As protestors advanced, police allegedly opened fire, sparking chaos and fear. "Those in power cannot impose their will on us," the protester said, condemning the suppression of freedom of speech and expression. The incident highlights rising tensions between citizens demanding accountability and authorities accused of using force to silence dissent.

Nepal Police said, "Nine people have lost their lives as the protest turned violent in Kathmandu as people staged a massive protest against the ban on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and other social media sites, leading to clashes between police and protesters."

At least six Gen Z protesters were killed and several others were injured after the violent clashes between demonstrators and police in New Baneshwar on Monday. 

The Nepal government issued shoot-at-sight orders after Gen-Z protesters set fire to the Parliament building and vandalised parts of it.

Demonstrators were also seen throwing teargas back at the police, who had retreated to a corner of the street, making a huddle, and using riot shields to protect from incoming projectiles.

The Nepali Army has been deployed in New Baneshwor after the situation intensified during the Gen Z protest against corruption and the government's social media ban. The army was mobilised following the imposition of a curfew in the area. 

At least 42 people were injured on Monday as violent demonstrations led by youths against a Nepal government ban on social media sites intensified in Kathmandu, prompting authorities to impose a day-long curfew in parts of the capital city, police said. Local media reported that one person was killed in the violence; however, there was no official confirmation.

Rage against the Nepalese government erupted after it decided to shut down over two dozen social media platforms, which it claims is an effort to tax the revenue they generate in the country and to control content critical of the government.
Following the order from the government, social media sites went dark past midnight on September 4. The government states that it took the action after issuing repeated warnings to the platforms to open offices in Nepal, following a Cabinet decision last month that set a deadline, as well as an August 17 Supreme Court ruling that also required them to register and pay the requisite taxes.

However, the Bill cited in the ban, 'The Operation, Use, and Regulation of Social Media in Nepal', has not yet been passed by Parliament. Some social media platforms, which were already paying taxes in Nepal despite not being officially registered, have also been blocked. Currently, platforms such as Viber, TikTok, Wetalk and Nimbuzz are registered in Nepal, while Telegram and Global Diary are in the process. Widely used platforms like Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp have yet to initiate registration. Social media users calling themselves "Gen-Z" called for the nationwide protest today against the ban imposed by the government on social media.

Nepalese actor Hari Bansha Acharya posted on Facebook, saying, "Today's youth do more than just think--they ask questions. Why did this road collapse? Who is accountable? This is not a voice against the system but against those who misuse it." He urged political leaders to take responsibility and prepare the next generation for leadership.

Madan Krishna Shrestha, another actor, echoed similar sentiments in a post on Facebook, stating, "Corruption has reached alarming levels, and even Mother Nepal seems to weep. Youth are the country's future, and their dreams mirror Nepal's. Years of stagnation have frustrated every citizen. This is today's Gen Z speaking. Their voices must be heard. Corrupt officials must be held accountable, leaders who understand citizens' needs, and the nation's aspirations realised."

Singer and actor Prakash Saput publicly supported the protestors by sending NRs 25,000 each to two brothers participating in the protests, advising them to stay hydrated and use the funds to help fellow demonstrators, The Kathmandu Post reported.

According to The Kathmandu Post, citing eyewitnesses, police opened fire when demonstrators attempted to storm the Damak Municipality office. As the protests gained momentum, leading Nepali artists, actors, and entertainers voiced their support, further amplifying the movement.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said the party is not against social media, "but what cannot be accepted is those doing business in Nepal, making money, and yet not complying with the law," MyRepublica reported. "The independence of the nation is greater than the loss of jobs of a handful of individuals. How can it be acceptable to defy the law, disregard the constitution, and disrespect national dignity, independence, and sovereignty?" he said.

To bring the situation under control, police officers responded with water cannons and tear gas, while protesters threw tree branches and water bottles, chanting slogans against the government. Some protesters have even entered the Parliament building premises in New Baneshwar.

The Kathmandu District Administration on Monday imposed a curfew in and around New Baneshwar after clashes broke out between Gen Z protesters and police.

• The curfew order covers New Baneshwar Chowk westward to Everest Hotel and Bijulibazar Arch Bridge, and from New Baneshwar Chowk eastward via Min Bhawan and Shantinagar to Tinkune Chowk.
• Curfew also applies from New Baneshwar Chowk northward through Eyeplex Mall to Ratna Rajya Secondary School and southward via Shankhamul to Shankhamul Bridge.
• The curfew order prohibits movement, gatherings, demonstrations, or encirclements within these zones.
• Earlier, security forces had set up barricades, but protesters pushed through and damaged them.

In view of the current situation in Nepal, instructions to increase vigilance on the India-Nepal border, as per the sources. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has increased vigilance on the India-Nepal border and has deployed additional troops for security and surveillance.

 (Input: Manish Prasad)

Nepal on Thursday banned social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, among others, for failing to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology within the given deadline. According to the notice issued by the ministry, the social media companies were given seven days from August 28 to register. Even when the deadline expired on Wednesday night, none of the large social media platforms—including Meta (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp), Alphabet (YouTube), X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and LinkedIn—submitted applications.  

Thousands of youths took to the street to protest against rampant corruption in the KP Sharma Oli government and its recent move to restrict social media platforms. The demonstrators clashed with police near Parliament. Security forces opened fire, leaving one protester dead and several others injured.