Nepal Lifts Social Media Ban After Protests Leave 19 Dead

Nepal has lifted its social media ban less than 24 hours after violent anti-corruption protests resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals. Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung announced the rollback of the ban on March 12, 2024, stating that all social media platforms would be operational again. The protests, primarily driven by young people, were ignited by the government’s decision to block access to various social media sites.

Following the protests on March 11, which left over 100 people injured, authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in the capital city of Kathmandu. Chhabilal Rijal, the Kathmandu district administrator, emphasized that the curfew prohibits any form of gatherings, including protests and assemblies. This measure aims to prevent further violence and unrest as the nation mourns those lost in the demonstrations.

During a statement on the night of the protests, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed his sorrow over the incidents, attributing the violence to “infiltration from different selfish centres.” He assured that the government would provide compensation to the families of the deceased and offer free medical treatment for the injured. Additionally, he announced the establishment of an investigation panel that would assess the causes of the protests and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.

The protests, characterized by their youthful energy and labelled as “demonstrations by Gen Z,” reflect a growing frustration among young Nepalese regarding the government’s perceived inaction on corruption and economic opportunities. This sentiment was intensified by the recent social media ban, which officials claimed was necessary to address issues of misinformation and fake identities.

Last week, the government blocked access to platforms including Facebook, citing failure to register with authorities. This move ignited anger among the youth, who viewed it as an infringement on their freedom of expression. The protests quickly spread to other cities in the Himalayan nation, underscoring widespread discontent among the population.

As the situation evolves, the Nepalese government faces the challenge of addressing both the underlying issues of corruption and the immediate aftermath of the protests, all while navigating the delicate balance between maintaining order and respecting civil liberties.