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yesterday

One Dead as Gen Z Protesters Clash With Police Over Nepal Social Media Ban

Authorities kept most major platforms offline under new registration rules, insisting companies open local offices before access is restored.

Tens of thousands of youths protest against social media ban in Nepal
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FILE - The Facebook app icon is seen on a smartphone, Feb. 28, 2023, in Marple Township, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)
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Overview

  • Police fired tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets after protesters breached barricades at the Parliament complex in Kathmandu, prompting a curfew across key government zones.
  • The blackout, ordered Sept. 4, targets 26 unregistered services such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X, while TikTok and Viber remain accessible after complying with registration.
  • Civil Hospital confirmed one protester died during Monday’s unrest, with multiple injuries reported, including journalists hurt while covering the clashes.
  • Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli defended the restrictions as a matter of law and national dignity, saying access will resume only when platforms register, appoint local officers and establish a point of contact.
  • Journalists and tech industry groups warned of harm to free expression and the digital economy as large youth-led demonstrations broadened into anti-corruption protests in Kathmandu and other cities including Damak.