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Grave Concerns Over Nepal's Crackdown on Protests, Excessive Use of Force Against Civilians

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Protesters in Nepal were met with a brutal response from security forces, resulting in the killing of at least 34 people and injuring hundreds more. The demonstrations, which began on 8 September 2025, were sparked by the government's ban on major social media platforms and widespread corruption. Despite the lifting of the ban and the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, protests continued, and the situation escalated further as government buildings were set on fire. The government's use of live ammunition, tear gas, and other weapons against protesters raises serious concerns about compliance with international human rights standards.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least 34 protesters were killed and hundreds more were injured in Nepal's crackdown on demonstrations against corruption and the government's social media ban.
  • The use of live ammunition, tear gas, and other weapons against protesters by security forces is a serious breach of Nepal's obligations under international law, including the absolute prohibition of torture and the Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials.
  • The government's response to the protests highlights a pattern of excessive and indiscriminate use of force, which violates the right to life and the prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
  • The use of live ammunition and other lethal force against protesters is a disproportionate response, and the government has failed to provide any clear legal basis for the use of force.
  • The army has assumed responsibility for maintaining order, but its deployment in protest contexts raises concerns about accountability and respect for human rights.
  • The government has been criticized for failing to address the root causes of the protests, including widespread corruption, economic inequality, and shrinking civic space.
  • The United Against Torture Consortium has called on the government of Nepal to take immediate action to address these concerns and to ensure that protesters are dealt with in accordance with international human rights standards.
  • The United Against Torture Consortium is a coalition of six leading anti-torture organizations, including the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT), the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), and others.

Statistics:

  • At least 34 people were killed in the crackdown on protests.
  • Hundreds more were injured.
  • The demonstrations, which began on 8 September 2025, were marked by widespread use of live ammunition, tear gas, and other weapons against protesters.
  • 26 major social media platforms were banned in Nepal, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram.

Sources:

  • United Against Torture Consortium
  • World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT)
  • International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT)
  • European Union
  • OMCT, IRCT, Omega Research Foundation, and Redress (authors of the statement)

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