Kathmandu, Nepal, is currently experiencing widespread unrest, with protests resulting in a tragic loss of at least 14 lives. The demonstrations, largely spearheaded by Generation Z, began on Monday. The core reasons behind these protests involve severe concerns regarding government corruption, combined with the recent prohibition of several social media platforms. On Monday, protesters damaged the parliament gate, and shots were fired. There are numerous reports of injuries, with fears of more casualties.
In response to the escalating violence, authorities imposed a curfew across essential areas of the capital, with the curfew being in effect from 12:30 pm to 10 pm. The Kathmandu district administration office (DAO) extended the curfew’s scope to include the residential areas of key government figures, such as the president, prime minister, and vice-president, in addition to Singha Durbar. Specific locations affected by the curfew included the President’s residence in Shital Niwas, Maharajgunj, the vice-president’s residence in Lainchaur, all sides of Singha Durbar, the prime minister’s residence in Baluwatar, and adjacent areas.
The demonstrations, which began peacefully, turned violent when protesters breached barricades and entered restricted zones close to the Parliament. Police responded with water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets after protesters threw objects and voiced anti-government sentiments. Certain protesters managed to access the Parliament compound, which amplified the tension. The Nepal Army has been deployed to assist in managing the situation.
The protests were directly triggered by the Nepali government’s decision to ban 26 unregistered social media platforms, which was implemented on September 4. This ban included widely used apps like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Snapchat. This action sparked widespread public outrage, specifically among the youth, who have accused the government of suppressing free expression and failing to address systemic corruption. They see the social media ban as a direct violation of their freedom of speech and their right to expression. Parties like CPN-UML and Nepali Congress have been targeted for alleged human rights abuses.
A protester reported, “We had planned to protest peacefully, but we witnessed police brutality as we proceeded. The police are firing on the people, which is against the essence of peaceful protest. Those who hold power cannot impose their will on us. Anti-corruption protests are being suppressed, infringing on freedom of speech and expression. The police have been firing at protesters.”
Another protester highlighted, “This is a protest by the new generation in Nepal. A new form of oppression has been introduced in the nation. The potential of Nepali youth is being exploited, and high-ranking officials are involved in power misuse. Human rights are being violated by the major political parties: CPN-UML and Nepali Congress, and the Maoist Center.”
The Nepal police have stated that nine people lost their lives because of the violence.
Protests also took place in Pokhara, Butwal, Chitwan, Nepalgunj, and Biratnagar.