Nepal's Government Faces Backlash Over Social Media Ban and Corruption

The Nepalese government responded to growing protests against a ban on social media platforms with deadly force, leaving 19 protesters dead and exposing deep-seated corruption. The protests, led by mostly teenagers and young adults, revealed broader resentment towards the government's handling of corruption and nepotism in politics.

Key Takeaways:

• The protests, dubbed the "protest of Gen Z," were largely in response to a ban on social media platforms that went into effect last week, as well as a government bill requiring platforms to register and submit to local oversight and regulations.
• Rights groups have criticized the bill as a tool for censorship and an attempt to curb freedom of expression and violate fundamental rights.
• The protests also highlighted widespread anger towards corruption, with many criticizing politicians and their families for flaunting their luxury possessions in a country with a per capita income of $1,400 a year.
• The protests have been the worst in decades in Nepal, with at least 18 people killed in the violence.
• The unrest has also sparked concerns about political instability, with many calling for the government to dissolve and create further unrest.
• The security forces' violent response has exacerbated tensions, with protests spreading to other parts of the country, including suburbs of Kathmandu.
• Protesters, including Nima Tendi Sherpa, 19, who was shot in the arm by police, are demanding bigger change and the toppling of the government.
• The protests seem to have a larger purpose, mirroring youth-led uprisings in neighboring Bangladesh and Sri Lanka that toppled both governments.

Statistics:

• 19 protesters were killed in the violence.
• 20% of youth in Nepal were unemployed last year, according to the World Bank.
• The protests have been the worst in decades in Nepal, with at least 18 people killed in the violence.
• Life expectancy in Nepal is around 72 years, while per capita income is $1,400 a year.
• 13 governments have been formed in Nepal since 2008.
• The protests have spread to suburbs of Kathmandu, including Banepa and Namche.

Sources:

• Sheikh Saaliq and Niranjan Shrestha, "Nepal's government faces backlash over social media ban and corruption," Associated Press, March 15, 2025.