Kathmandu– Nepal’s capital witnessed massive demonstrations on Monday as thousands of young protesters, largely from Generation Z, took to the streets against government corruption and the recent ban on major social media platforms.
What began as a peaceful march in Kathmandu’s Baneshwar quickly turned violent after protesters breached barricades near Parliament. Demonstrators vandalized the main gate, threw tree branches and water bottles, and shouted anti-government slogans. Some managed to enter the Parliament compound, triggering chaos. Police responded with water cannons, teargas, rubber bullets, and dozens of warning rounds. Several people were injured, with casualties feared.
Authorities swiftly extended a curfew across high-security zones, including the President’s residence at Shital Niwas, the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, and the Singha Durbar government complex. The curfew, announced under Section 6 of the Local Administration Act, will remain in effect from 12:30 PM to 10:00 PM local time, prohibiting all public gatherings or movement.
The unrest follows the government’s decision to block 26 widely used but unregistered social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Snapchat. Officials argued the platforms ignored directives to register offices in Nepal and pay taxes, citing a Supreme Court ruling last month. However, critics accuse the government of suppressing free expression while failing to address corruption.
The crackdown sparked outrage among youth, who called nationwide protests through online campaigns before the platforms went dark on September 4. Many artists and cultural figures have now lent support to the movement. Veteran actor Hari Bansha Acharya said, “Today’s youth ask questions, they demand accountability. This is not against the system but against those misusing it.” Fellow actor Madan Krishna Shrestha added, “Corruption has reached alarming levels, and even Mother Nepal weeps. Gen Z’s voices must be heard.”
In a symbolic gesture, singer-actor Prakash Saput sent financial aid to protesters, urging them to stay safe and hydrated. Meanwhile, incidents of violence were also reported outside Kathmandu, including in Damak, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s hometown, where demonstrators clashed with police outside the municipality office.
The protests mark one of the largest youth-led uprisings in Nepal in recent years, underscoring growing frustration with corruption and restrictions on digital freedoms.
