In early September 2025, protests broke out in Kathmandu after the government blocked 26 social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube because they did not register with the state. For young people, this was more than just losing apps—it felt like losing their freedom to speak.
The first protest began on September 4, 2025, when hundreds of young people, mostly from Generation Z, gathered in Kathmandu. They held placards and shouted slogans against the government’s move. Soon, the protests spread to other cities like Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Lalitpur. Even without big political parties leading them, the youth managed to bring thousands of people together.
The protests were not only about social media. Gen Z was angry with leaders because of corruption, favoritism (nepotism), and lack of jobs. Videos of rich “Nepo Kids”—the sons and daughters of politicians and powerful families—showing off their wealth on TikTok and Instagram made the anger even worse.
When protesters tried to march closer to Parliament, the police responded with tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets. The clashes turned deadly. By September 8, at least 19 people had died, most of them in Kathmandu and Itahari. Later reports showed that around 30 people were killed nationwide, including protesters and 3 policemen. More than 2,500 people were injured across the country. The wife of former Prime Minister Rabi Laxmi Chitrakar also died when their house was set on fire. However, no sitting politicians or ex-ministers were killed.
Despite the violence, the protests continued. Finally, the government withdrew the social media ban. On September 8, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned, marking a huge victory for Nepal’s youth.
The Gen Z protests showed that young people, with courage and unity, can force change and make their voices heard.
.jpg)
.jpeg)
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments not related to the topic will be removed immediately.