Nepal Lifts Social Media Ban After Deadly Protests

Sun Oct 19 2025 20:09:38 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Following violent street protests that resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals, Nepal's government has lifted its ban on major social media platforms, including Facebook, X, and YouTube, which was initially enforced last week amidst tensions over new regulations.

Nepal's government has rescinded a ban on prominent social media networks after violent protests erupted, leaving at least 19 people dead. Demonstrators opposed government efforts to regulate these platforms, leading to a confrontation with police in Kathmandu. The Home Minister resigned amid public outcry as the country grapples with issues of freedom of expression.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Nepal’s government lifted its ban on social media platforms Tuesday, a day after violent protests that left at least 19 dead.

Major platforms including Facebook, X, and YouTube were blocked last week following massive protests in the capital, Kathmandu. On Monday, police opened fire on crowds objecting to a proposed regulation of social media.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned late Monday during an emergency Cabinet meeting commanded by Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli.

Mass protests surrounded the Parliament building, with tens of thousands rallying against authorities who claimed that these social media companies had not registered properly.

The unrest escalated as police fired into the crowds during an attempt by the government to impose stricter regulations on social media, which critics have slammed as censorship.

The government's regulatory framework requires that international platforms appoint a local representative and comply with oversight measures. Many in Nepal regard these regulations as an assault on freedom of expression.

"Stop the ban on social media. Stop corruption, not social media," protesters chanted, underscoring their calls for accountability and an end to governmental infringement on their rights.

The protests were characterized as a movement of Gen Z, representing young citizens between 1995 and 2010 who are increasingly vocal against government policies.

In 2023, Nepal previously banned TikTok, citing disruption to social harmony, only to lift the ban after assurances were made regarding compliance with local laws.

The government imposed a curfew around critical governmental sites in light of the ongoing unrest.