Nepal Government Lifts Social Media Ban Following Deadly Protests
Protests led by Generation Z (Gen Z) in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, over the government’s social media ban and allegations of corruption have resulted in a reported 14 to 19 deaths, with hundreds of others injured. The government has since lifted the ban on 26 major social media apps and messaging services after these violent clashes.
Background and Context
Last week, the government of Nepal blocked access to several social media platforms, including Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn, and 23 other platforms. This action was taken after these companies reportedly failed to register with authorities in a crackdown on misuse. This move sparked widespread anger among the country's younger population, leading to mass protests dubbed the 'Gen Z Revolution'.
Protests and Violence
On Monday, thousands of young Nepalese took to the streets and stormed the Parliament building in response to the social media ban and accusations of government corruption. The Kathmandu District Administration Office reported that police used water cannon, batons, rubber bullets, and even live rounds in an attempt to control the situation.
While the South China Morning Post reported 17 deaths, sources such as TASS, Deutsche Welle, and Al Jazeera reported at least 14 deaths. However, both Folha de S.Paulo and Clarin reported a higher death toll of 19. The South China Morning Post also reported that over 145 people were wounded, while other sources noted that number to be over 300.
Implications and Reactions
The protests highlighted the frustration of Nepal's younger generation with the government's social media ban and allegations of corruption. Many of the victims were students in uniform, further emphasizing the youth-led nature of these protests. Videos circulating online show the severity of the confrontation, which has been described as the bloodiest the Himalayan republic has seen in years.
Following the violent protests, Nepal's Communication and Information Minister announced the rollback of the social media ban. The decision came hours after demonstrators protesting against the blockade surged towards the parliament complex in Kathmandu.
Current Status
Despite the lifting of the ban, the situation remains tense in Nepal. Curfews have been imposed in key areas of Kathmandu, with the Army also being deployed to control the situation. The death toll and number of injuries reported vary across different sources, indicating a fluid and rapidly evolving situation.
The protests and subsequent violence have drawn international attention, and the world will be watching Nepal closely to see how the government responds to the demands of its young population in the aftermath of these violent protests. The lifting of the social media ban is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether this action will be enough to quell the anger and frustration of the country's youth.