On Monday, September 8, 2025, Kathmandu was gripped by large-scale unrest as thousands of young Nepalis mostly Gen Z flooded the streets in protest. Their anger was fuelled by the government’s abrupt decision to ban 26 popular social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, and Reddit, citing non-registration with authorities.

The demonstrations quickly escalated, particularly in New Baneshwor where protesters breached barricades and stormed the Parliament building. In response, police resorted to tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets. The clashes turned deadly nine protesters lost their lives and over 42 were injured, per official Nepal police reports.

Faced with growing turbulence, the government declared a curfew across key zones in Kathmandu, including the areas surrounding Parliament and government offices, aiming to restore order.

Protesters voiced their frustration with slogans like “Shut down corruption, not social media”, accusing the government of using censorship to suppress dissent. They linked the social media ban to deeper issues of corruption and authoritarian overreach.

Authorities defended the policy, stating that the ban followed non-compliance by platforms that failed to register representatives for accountability under the new regulations. Platforms like TikTok and Viber avoided the ban by complying.

Nepal’s youth-driven protests symbolize a broader battle over digital rights, free speech, and government control in the digital age. As authorities deploy curfews and security forces, questions arise: Will the state hold firm, or will dialogue prevail? The world is watching this generation confront its own identity and demand a digital future without censorship.