South Asia

14 dead in Nepal mass protests against social media ban

Update: 16:56, 8 September 2025

At least 14 people have died after police clashed with thousands of protesters in Kathmandu. The demonstrations erupted on Monday after the government blocked access to major social media platforms.

Things escalated quickly outside parliament. Protesters tried to storm the legislature by breaking through police barricades. In response, police fired tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets.
The government insists it blocked social media because people were spreading fake news, hate speech, and scams using fake IDs. But for many Nepalis, especially the younger generation, this feels like an excuse. They believe authorities are trying to silence criticism and hide corruption scandals that have been simmering for months.
By the evening, Kathmandu looked like a city under siege. Authorities imposed a strict curfew around parliament, later extending it to the Singha Durbar government complex, which houses the prime minister’s office, ministries, and even the presidential residence. Police said the curfew would last until late at night, though few people seemed willing to leave the streets quietly.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes—an ambulance set on fire, security vehicles stopped by angry crowds, and injured protesters rushed to nearby hospitals. State-run media initially reported only one death and dozens injured, but local outlets said the toll had already climbed to at least 14.
Officials tried to downplay the chaos. Ekram Giri, a parliament spokesperson, admitted some protesters managed to breach the compound but said they never reached the main building. Police quickly forced them back out, though they regrouped on the streets outside.
The bigger picture here is worrying. Nepal is already dealing with high youth unemployment, rising prices, and growing frustration over corruption. Social media has been one of the few outlets for young Nepalis to vent, organize, and hold leaders accountable. Cutting that off has only fueled suspicion that the government is cracking down on dissent rather than solving problems.