Widespread protests swept through Kathmandu on Monday as thousands of young demonstrators, largely from Generation Z, rallied against government corruption and a recent ban on major social media platforms, The Kathmandu Post reported.
The demonstrations turned violent when protesters vandalized the Parliament gate and clashed with police, who responded with water cannons, teargas, and rubber bullets. Several people, including a journalist, were injured, and casualties are feared.
Authorities swiftly extended a curfew to cover high-security zones, including the President’s residence, the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, Singha Durbar, and other key areas. Chief District Officer Chhabilal Rijal announced that movement, gatherings, and protests would remain prohibited from 12:30 PM to 10:00 PM under Section 6 of the Local Administration Act.
The unrest followed the government’s decision to ban 26 unregistered social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Snapchat. Officials claimed the move was aimed at enforcing tax compliance and content regulation, but critics see it as an attack on free expression.
Anger deepened after the ban came into effect on September 4, with youth-led groups calling nationwide protests. Demonstrators accused the government of silencing dissent while ignoring deep-rooted corruption.
Prominent cultural figures, including veteran actors Hari Bansha Acharya and Madan Krishna Shrestha, voiced support for the youth, urging accountability and systemic reform. Singer-actor Prakash Saput also backed the protesters, sending financial aid to participants on the ground.
Reports also emerged of violence in Damak, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s hometown, where police allegedly opened fire on protesters attempting to storm the municipality office.
As protests grow, the government faces mounting pressure from Nepal’s younger generation, who say they are determined to hold leaders accountable and reclaim their right to free expression.