Nepal’s Gen Z Protests: Social Media Ban, Curfews, and the Resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli

Imagine waking up one morning to find that your Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and even YouTube have suddenly gone dark. That’s exactly what millions of Nepalis experienced on September 4, 2025, when the government abruptly banned 26 social media platforms. What began as frustration soon turned into one of the largest youth-led uprisings in Nepal’s recent history.

By September 8, the streets of Kathmandu were flooded with young protesters—many in their school and college uniforms—marching under the banner of freedom of expression and accountability in governance. The movement quickly escalated, leaving at least 19 people dead and over 400 injured, forcing the government to impose curfews across Kathmandu and other major cities.

What Sparked the Protests?

The immediate trigger was the government’s decision to block popular social media platforms after they failed to meet new registration rules. Officials argued this was about accountability, but to young Nepalis, it felt like a direct assault on their freedom of expression and their lifeline to the outside world.

The ban especially angered Gen Z, a generation that had grown up using these platforms not just for communication, but also for activism, education, and even small businesses.

Who Were the Protesters?

Unlike earlier movements in Nepal, this uprising was not aligned with political parties.

It was spearheaded by Gen Z citizens under 30, many linked to Hami Nepal, a youth-based non-profit.
Protesters called out corruption, nepotism, and lack of accountability in the government, often mocking politicians as “nepo babies.”
Even the Mayor of Kathmandu, Balendra Shah, who had himself risen to power through social media campaigns, openly voiced support for the movement.

What Happened on the Ground?

The protests began peacefully at Maitighar Mandala, a symbolic protest site in Kathmandu. But by afternoon, barricades were broken, and demonstrators stormed towards Parliament.

Security forces responded with tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets.
Protesters retaliated with sticks, bottles, and motorcycles to breach barricades.
The violence led to 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries, some with gunshot wounds.

In response, the government imposed curfews around Parliament, the President’s and Vice President’s residences, and key intersections.

Beyond the Social Media Ban

While the ban was the spark, the protests tapped into deeper frustrations:

Corruption scandals like the Airbus aircraft purchase deal.

High unemployment and lack of opportunities at home, pushing millions into migration.

Economic dependence on remittances, which many youths feel traps Nepal in a cycle of stagnation.

A growing sense that political elites are disconnected from the everyday struggles of ordinary Nepalis.

The Political Fallout

The scale of the protests forced swift changes:

Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on September 9, 2025, after two days of escalating unrest.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak also stepped down on “moral grounds.”
Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung resigned after criticism over the ban.
The social media ban was lifted following an emergency cabinet meeting.

The government has also set up a 15-day inquiry panel to investigate the deaths and violence.

India’s Response

Given Nepal’s strategic proximity, India quickly issued an advisory urging Indians in Nepal to stay cautious. Security was tightened in Uttar Pradesh districts bordering Nepal to prevent any spillover effects.

Why Does This Matter? (UPSC Angle)

Youth-led protests show the growing political influence of Gen Z across South Asia.
The role of social media in governance, protests, and politics is under the spotlight.
Regional stability: Any upheaval in Nepal has direct security and economic implications for India.
Governance vs. Freedom: The protests highlight the tension between government regulation and citizen rights in the digital age.

✦ Narrative Note for Readers:
These protests in Nepal are not just about a ban on Facebook or Instagram. They are a mirror of the growing frustration of South Asian youth with corruption, inequality, and authoritarian overreach. For UPSC aspirants, it is a reminder of how governance, technology, and youth aspirations are now deeply interconnected.