Protests Turn Deadly After Social Media Ban

Nepal’s Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli resigned on Tuesday following violent protests in Kathmandu sparked by a short-lived ban on social media platforms. The unrest, led largely by young people, quickly escalated into a broader movement against government corruption and the country’s political elite.

The demonstrations began after authorities blocked Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, claiming the companies failed to register with government oversight. Although the ban was lifted within days, frustration over corruption and inequality drove tens of thousands into the streets.

At least 19 protesters were killed after police opened fire on crowds outside Nepal’s parliament on Monday.

Political Chaos and Buildings Set Ablaze

Protesters set fire to several government buildings, including the prime minister’s office at Singha Durbar, parliament, and private residences of top political leaders. Army helicopters were deployed to evacuate ministers from the capital, and Kathmandu airport was temporarily shut down.

The houses of President Ramchandra Paudel, former PM Sher Bahadur Deuba, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal were also attacked.

Youth Anger Over Corruption and Inequality

The protests were heavily driven by Nepal’s youth population, frustrated by corruption and high unemployment. According to the World Bank, youth unemployment stood at 20% last year, with more than 2,000 Nepali youth leaving daily for jobs in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Many demonstrators voiced anger at so-called “Nepo Kids” — children of politicians who live lavish lifestyles while most young Nepalis struggle to find opportunities.

“I am here to protest about the massive corruption in our country,” said Bishnu Thapa Chetri, a student. “The country has gotten so bad that for us youths there is no ground for us to stay.”

PM Oli Steps Down After Mounting Pressure

In his resignation letter, Oli, 73, said he was stepping down to “facilitate a political solution in accordance with the constitution.”

President Paudel has called for dialogue, urging protesters to stand down to prevent further escalation. Meanwhile, Nepal’s army issued a statement appealing for calm but did not specify further action.

Social Media Ban Condemned

Rights groups condemned the government’s attempt to enforce a registration law for social networks, calling it an attack on freedom of expression. The proposal required companies like Meta, Google, and X to appoint local liaison offices.

While TikTok and a few platforms complied, the ban on Facebook, X, and YouTube triggered the crisis. Protesters’ rallying cry — “Stop corruption, not social media” — spread widely online once access was restored.

Global Concern Over Nepal’s Stability

International observers warn that the crisis exposes deep-rooted frustration with Nepal’s political system, fragile economy, and lack of opportunities for its youth.

The resignation of the prime minister is seen as a major political shake-up, but it remains unclear whether it will calm the anti-corruption movement now gripping the Himalayan nation.