Nepal's Gen Z Clashes with Police Over Social Media Ban, Corruption

Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, witnessed intense clashes on Monday as Gen Z protesters, born between 1997 and 2012, took to the streets to oppose a government-imposed social media shutdown and widespread allegations of corruption.

The demonstrations, which spread to cities like Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Butwal, turned volatile in New Baneshwor as thousands of youths attempted to breach police barricades near the Federal Parliament.

Authorities responded with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and aerial shots to control the crowd, which had damaged barricades and pelted stones at security forces.

A curfew was enforced in key areas of Kathmandu from 12:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. to restore order.

Tensions Rise in Kathmandu

The protests began peacefully, with students and young demonstrators, many in school uniforms, carrying Nepal’s national flag and placards with slogans like “Shut down corruption and not social media” and “Unban social media.”

The situation escalated when protesters broke through restricted zones, climbed over gates, and entered the Parliament premises.

“We have imposed a curfew which will remain in force until 10 p.m. local time (1615 GMT) to bring the situation under control after protesters began to turn violent,” said Muktiram Rijal, a spokesperson for the Kathmandu district office.

The Nepali Army was deployed to support police efforts as the situation was described as “highly tense” by authorities.

Government Faces Growing Criticism

The social media ban, enacted last week after platforms like Facebook failed to register with authorities, has fueled public outrage.

The government claims the shutdown targets misuse, including hate speech, fake news, and fraud facilitated by fake IDs.

However, critics argue the measure stifles free expression, reflecting global concerns over increasing regulation of social media.

In Nepal, where 90% of the 30 million population uses the internet, the ban has amplified frustrations, particularly among youths who see it as an overreach.

Combined with accusations of rampant corruption and unfulfilled promises by Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s administration, the protests highlight a growing demand for accountability and transparency.