Kathmandu, September 9 – Thousands of Gen Z youths organized large-scale protests across Nepal on Monday, voicing strong opposition to rising corruption and the government’s recent decision to block multiple social media platforms. The movement, which began at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu at 9 a.m., drew students and young professionals who carried placards and chanted slogans such as “Let us speak, government” and “Social media banned, corruption open.”
The peaceful march escalated as protesters advanced toward the Parliament building, breaching several police barricades. Security forces responded with tear gas and water cannons. Reports confirmed one fatality and over 80 injuries following police gunfire during clashes near restricted areas. In response to the unrest, a curfew was imposed in central parts of Kathmandu.
The protests were triggered by the government’s announcement on September 4 to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube, citing failure to comply with new registration requirements set by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Protesters criticized the ban as a violation of freedom of expression and digital rights.
Similar demonstrations were held in other cities including Pokhara and Dang. Protesters demanded government accountability, transparency in public spending, and job opportunities for the youth.
Several political leaders, including Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah, expressed support for the movement. However, organizers requested that politicians not physically participate in order to keep the protests independent and non-partisan. Additionally, artists and musicians across Nepal have publicly backed the movement, amplifying its message through social media and public statements.
