Nepal Gen Z Protests Turn Deadly as Security Forces Crack Down

Kathmandu, September 8, 2025 - Security forces opened fire on Gen Z demonstrators protesting in front of the Parliament building in Kathmandu today, killing one and injuring dozens, after youths rallied against a government ban on major social media platforms and alleged corruption.

The protests, led primarily by young Nepalese demanding restoration of Facebook, Instagram and other apps blocked since September 4, escalated into violent clashes when demonstrators breached barricades, prompting authorities to impose a curfew and deploy the army to enforce order.

Gen Z Mobilises Against Social Media Ban

Tens of thousands of youths, many still in school, massed at New Baneshwar in Kathmandu, chanting “Stop the ban on social media, stop corruption, not social media.” They accused Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s administration of stifling free expression while failing to tackle graft. Demonstrators set fire to the outer gate of the Parliament complex and attempted to storm adjacent government offices.

Security Response and Curfew

Police and riot units responded with water cannon, tear gas and rubber bullets before resorting to live fire when crowds pressed forward. State television reported one protester dead and at least 30 wounded; Kathmandu police sources said more than 80 people suffered injuries during the day’s unrest. A curfew was declared from 12:30 PM to 10:00 PM in the capital’s core security zones, including the Presidential residence, Prime Minister’s office and surrounding areas.

Army Deployment and Wider Unrest

At the request of civilian authorities, two platoons of the Nepal Army took positions around the Parliament’s perimeter to bolster police efforts. Similar protests spread to Biratnagar, Pokhara and Butwal as young activists in other cities staged solidarity rallies against the social media restrictions.

Social Media Ban Sparks Nationwide Outcry

On September 4, the government ordered 26 platforms-including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and YouTube-to register in Nepal or face shutdown, citing revenue taxation and content oversight. Critics argue the move aims to muzzle dissent ahead of upcoming local elections. Tech-savvy demonstrators have been using VPNs and mirror sites to coordinate their actions despite the ban.

Political Fallout

Prime Minister Oli convened an emergency National Security Council meeting at his Baluwatar residence to address the protests and potential governance breaches. Opposition parties have condemned the security crackdown and urged dialogue, warning that heavy-handed tactics risk deepening public anger and destabilising Nepal’s fragile democracy.

Subheadings

  • Gen Z Mobilises: Youth-led march over social media restrictions
  • Security Response: Tear gas, water cannon and live rounds deployed
  • Curfew Imposed: Movement banned in high-security zones until evening
  • Army Deployed: Military supports police around Parliament
  • Nationwide Rallies: Solidarity protests erupt in major cities
  • Political Tensions: Emergency security meeting called amid criticism