Nepal is witnessing its worst political unrest in years after a sweeping ban on major social media platforms triggered massive street protests, leaving at least 16 people dead and over 150 injured. The government has deployed the army, imposed a strict curfew, and issued shoot-at-sight orders in parts of Kathmandu as demonstrators clashed with security forces.

Trigger: Social Media Ban Sparks Youth-Led Uprising

The crisis began after Nepal’s government announced a sudden nationwide ban on Facebook, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok and 23 other platforms, citing concerns over “national security and public order.” The move, widely perceived as an attack on freedom of expression, was met with swift backlash—particularly from young Nepalis, students, and activists.

Thousands poured into the streets of Kathmandu and other major cities over the weekend, chanting slogans against censorship and demanding restoration of digital access. Many protesters described the blackout as a direct attempt to silence dissent in a country where social media has become the primary outlet for political debate.

Violence Outside Parliament

The protests turned violent late Sunday after demonstrators set fire to one of the gates of the Nepalese Parliament building. Riot police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the crowds.

According to eyewitness accounts, security forces later opened live fire when clashes escalated, leading to multiple fatalities. Hospitals in Kathmandu confirmed receiving dozens of critical injuries, including head and chest wounds.

Government officials have not released an official death toll, but independent reports and local media estimate at least 16 killed.

Army Deployed, Curfew Imposed

As the unrest spread, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ held an emergency cabinet meeting on Sunday night, authorizing the Nepal Army’s deployment across the capital.

A strict curfew has been imposed in Kathmandu and Lalitpur, with orders prohibiting public gatherings. Authorities also confirmed a shoot-at-sight directive in sensitive areas, saying it was necessary to prevent “further attacks on state institutions.”

Home Ministry spokespersons insisted that the measures were temporary, aimed at restoring law and order.

Public Outrage and Fear

The response has drawn criticism from civil society groups, who accuse the government of using excessive force against largely unarmed demonstrators. Human rights activists have warned that the crackdown risks escalating tensions further and could push the country into deeper instability.

Meanwhile, Kathmandu’s streets remain tense, with burned vehicles, barricades, and heavy police presence. Shops and businesses have largely shut down, and daily life in the capital has been paralyzed.

Many young protesters—particularly Gen Z activists—say they are determined to continue demonstrations despite the risks. Videos shared via VPNs and encrypted platforms show crowds chanting slogans like “No Freedom, No Peace” and holding placards demanding the end of digital restrictions.

International Concern

The scale of the violence has drawn concern from international observers, with several rights organizations calling for restraint. Amnesty International urged Nepalese authorities to “respect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly and avoid disproportionate use of force.”

Diplomatic missions in Kathmandu have also advised citizens to avoid protest-hit areas and remain indoors during curfew hours.

A Nation at a Crossroads

Nepal has struggled with political instability for years, with frequent changes in government and a fragile democratic setup. The current crisis has underscored the deep disconnect between a digitally connected younger generation and a political establishment accused of authoritarian tendencies.

While the government insists that the ban on social media was necessary to combat misinformation, critics argue that the move represents a dangerous rollback of hard-won democratic freedoms.

With 16 lives lost, growing anger on the streets, and an uncertain path ahead, Nepal now faces a defining moment that could shape the country’s democratic trajectory for years to come.