Kathmandu, Sept 9, 2025 – Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has made a defiant statement in the wake of violent protests that erupted across the country against the government’s ban on 26 social media platforms. Speaking after a cabinet meeting on Monday, Oli categorically refused to lift the ban, declaring that his government “will not bow down to Gen-Z miscreants.”
The cabinet meeting witnessed heated exchanges as ministers from the Nepali Congress, part of Oli’s coalition, demanded the ban’s removal. Their demand sparked a rift, with several Congress ministers staging a walkout in protest.
Protests Turn Violent in Kathmandu
On September 8, thousands of young protesters, many from Gen-Z, poured onto the streets of Kathmandu to demand the restoration of social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
The demonstrations escalated after protesters stormed the Parliament House, forcing police to open fire to disperse the crowd. Security forces later imposed a curfew around key government installations, including the President’s and Prime Minister’s residences.
The protests marked the first time in Nepal’s history that demonstrators occupied gates of Parliament, signaling the scale of youth anger against censorship.
Home Minister Resigns
In a dramatic political development, Home Minister Ramesh Shrestha of the Nepali Congress resigned, taking moral responsibility for the violence and casualties during the protests. His resignation has further deepened the rift within the ruling alliance.
Army Deployed, Curfew Extended
Following the unrest, the Nepal Army was deployed in the capital. Soldiers took control of major roads near the Parliament complex in New Baneshwor. Curfew orders were extended not only in Kathmandu but also in Lalitpur, Pokhara, Butwal, and Itahari.
While the situation calmed temporarily by late Monday, authorities remain on high alert, anticipating a possible resurgence of protests on Tuesday (Sept 9).
Social Media Ban Sparks Freedom Concerns
The Nepal government imposed the ban on September 4, claiming that companies failed to comply with mandatory registration laws. PM Oli insists the restrictions are meant to “regulate platforms and curb fake news.”
However, opponents argue that the move is an attack on freedom of expression, drawing parallels with China-style censorship. For many youths, particularly those in education, startups, and tourism, social media is not only a communication tool but also a source of livelihood.
As Nepal braces for more demonstrations, the standoff between the government and Gen-Z youth threatens to spiral into a wider political crisis.
also read – Fire of Protests in Nepal over Social Media Ban: PM KP Oli Faces Gen-Z Uprising