Mass Protests and Prime Minister’s Resignation in Nepal Over Social Media Ban

Nepal Protests: From Social Media Ban to Storming Parliament and Deadly Clashes

On September 9, 2025, Nepal is gripped by a political crisis. Mass protests led by Generation Z youth have forced the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and the lifting of a ban on social media platforms. According to Al Jazeera and Reuters, at least 19 people were killed and over 100 injured in clashes with police in Kathmandu, reports DROBRO.

The protests erupted on September 8 after the government blocked access to 26 platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and WhatsApp, on September 4, citing failure to register and combat fake news. However, it was widely seen as censorship. Thousands of young demonstrators took to the streets with slogans against corruption and economic inequality, breaching barriers to storm Parliament, setting it ablaze, and attacking party offices.

Resignation of Prime Minister Oli and Government Response to Nepal Protests

Today, Prime Minister Oli submitted his resignation amid the “extraordinary situation,” which President Ram Chandra Paudel accepted, paving the way for a new government. The ban on social media was lifted to meet protesters’ demands. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak also resigned. A curfew was imposed in Kathmandu, the airport closed, and flights canceled. Police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons, leading to fatalities. The army urged youth to maintain peace. The UN expressed shock and called for an investigation, offering assistance.

Consequences of Protests for Nepal and International Reaction

These events mark the culmination of frustration over corruption, low per capita income ($1,300 annually), and freedom restrictions in a nation of 30 million where 90% use the internet. Youth, inspired by TikTok videos of politicians’ children living luxuriously, demand reforms.

Human Rights Watch condemns excessive police force. India’s embassy advises against travel. The protests could lead to political change but also further instability.

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