At Least 19 Killed in Nepal as Gen Z Protests Against Corruption and Social Media Ban Turn Deadly

Kathmandu — September 8, 2025 — At least 19 people have been killed and dozens more injured in Nepal after nationwide protests led largely by young people erupted into violence over government corruption scandals and a controversial social media ban.

The demonstrations, spearheaded by students and activists in Kathmandu and other major cities, began peacefully last week but escalated sharply over the weekend after police deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Hospitals in the capital reported a surge of casualties, with witnesses describing chaotic scenes as protesters clashed with security forces in the narrow streets surrounding government buildings.

The protests were sparked by growing frustration with allegations of widespread corruption within the ruling coalition and anger over a sudden government decision to block access to popular platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Officials claimed the ban was necessary to combat “misinformation and social unrest,” but many Nepalis, particularly members of Generation Z, saw it as an assault on free expression.

“This is not just about social media—it’s about our future being stolen by corrupt leaders who don’t want us to speak out,” said Anisha Shrestha, a 21-year-old student protester in Kathmandu. “We are tired of watching opportunities vanish while the government silences us.”

International rights groups have condemned the government’s response, calling it a disproportionate use of force against largely unarmed demonstrators. Amnesty International urged Nepalese authorities to lift restrictions on digital platforms and engage in dialogue with youth leaders rather than “responding to dissent with bullets.”

The government, however, defended its actions. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said security forces were “forced to act” after protests turned violent and accused “foreign-inspired groups” of fueling unrest. The administration has given no indication that it plans to reverse the social media ban.

Political analysts warn that the crisis could deepen if the government fails to address public anger. Nepal’s economy, still struggling from the twin shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic and declining tourism, has left young people particularly disillusioned.

“The combination of corruption, unemployment, and restrictions on expression has created a perfect storm,” said analyst Rabindra Koirala. “This generation feels robbed of its voice—and they are willing to fight for it.”

Funerals for those killed are expected to take place this week, with opposition parties planning to escalate demonstrations unless the government makes concessions. The tragedy marks one of the deadliest episodes of civil unrest in Nepal since the end of its civil war nearly two decades ago.