Protests Erupt in Nepal Amid Social Media Ban and Political Turmoil

Demonstrations in Nepal escalated into violence on March 5, 2024, as protesters responded to the government’s recent ban on social media. Thousands of demonstrators clashed with security forces, resulting in the burning of government buildings and attacks on political figures. The unrest follows the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, who stepped down amid rising criticism of his administration’s handling of political corruption and social issues.

Despite the lifting of the social media ban on the same day, protests continued to rage across the capital, Kathmandu. Hundreds of thousands filled the streets, demanding justice for the 19 individuals killed during police confrontations the previous day. As tensions mounted, army helicopters were deployed to transport some ministers to safety, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Young people, who have spearheaded the protests, expressed their discontent with the government’s actions, particularly regarding the blocking of platforms such as Facebook, X, and YouTube. The government justified the ban by claiming that these companies had not complied with local regulations. However, the protests quickly evolved into a broader critique of political corruption and inequality. Many demonstrators voiced their frustrations over the perceived privileges enjoyed by the children of political leaders, often referred to as “nepo kids.”

The youth unemployment rate in Nepal was approximately 20% last year, according to the World Bank. As economic opportunities dwindle, more than 2,000 young people reportedly leave the country daily in search of work in regions such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia. “I am here to protest about the massive corruption in our country,” stated student Bishnu Thapa Chetri. “The country has gotten so bad that for us youths, there is no grounds for us to stay.”

As protests intensified, the army’s chief, Ashok Raj Sigdel, released a video message urging citizens to cease demonstrations to prevent further loss of life. In parallel, Nepal’s ceremonial head of state, President Ram Chandra Poudel, called for dialogue and urged protesters to seek peaceful resolutions, although many expressed skepticism regarding the government’s sincerity.

The violence reached alarming levels as protesters attacked numerous government buildings, including the official residences of Prime Minister Oli and other high-ranking officials. Videos circulating on social media depicted the chaotic scenes, with demonstrators confronting leaders such as Sher Bahadur Deuba, the current foreign minister, who were assaulted during the unrest.

The protests, dubbed “the protest of Gen Z,” reflect a deep-seated frustration among the youth, who feel marginalized and powerless amid political corruption and systemic failures. “We are here to see that justice is done and the present regime is ousted,” declared protester Narayan Acharya. “KP Oli should be chased away.”

With the political landscape in turmoil and the government struggling to maintain order, the future remains uncertain for Nepal as it grapples with significant social unrest. The situation continues to develop, raising concerns about the potential for further violence and the need for substantial political reform.