The Nepal government lifted its controversial social media ban late Monday night, hours after 19 protesters were killed during nationwide demonstrations against corruption and restrictions on digital platforms. Despite mounting criticism, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli confirmed he will not resign.
The emergency cabinet meeting decided to restore access to platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and X, ending the ban imposed on September 4 over alleged non-compliance with registration rules. In his late-night address, PM Oli blamed “infiltrating groups” for the violence rather than taking responsibility for the killings.
Monday’s protests, largely driven by students under the banner of Gen-Z Nepal, spiraled into violence when demonstrators tried to breach the parliament compound. Security forces responded with live ammunition and tear gas, leaving 17 dead in Kathmandu and two more in Itahari. Rights groups have condemned the government’s heavy-handed response as excessive and disproportionate.
The embassies of Australia, Finland, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and the US issued a joint statement expressing condolences and reaffirming support for the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. They urged all sides to exercise restraint and prevent further escalation.
The United Nations Human Rights Office (UNHRO) also called for an independent and transparent probe, warning that the allegations of unnecessary force were “deeply worrying.” UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani emphasized Nepal’s democratic traditions and urged authorities to address grievances through dialogue rather than suppression.
The protests reflect growing anger among Nepal’s youth over shrinking economic opportunities, rampant corruption, and government efforts to silence dissent through digital restrictions.