Nepal Protests Over Social Media Ban: Timeline & Insights

In our earlier post we explained "The Nepal Social Media Ban" and now the protests of September 2025 have shaken Kathmandu and sparked international attention. Triggered by the government’s ban on 26 social media platforms—including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X—the protests turned violent as thousands of young Nepalis took to the streets.

September 2025 Nepal Protests Timeline

• September 4, 2025 – The government announces the ban after major platforms fail to register under new rules. TikTok remains exempt, raising suspicions among Gen-Z.
• September 8, 2025 – Protests erupt near Kathmandu’s New Baneshwor and Parliament. Security forces respond with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and live rounds.
• Casualties – Between 14–19 protesters killed and more than 100 injured, making this one of Nepal’s deadliest crackdowns in recent years.
• Government measures – A strict curfew is imposed, and the Nepal Army is deployed to restore order.

Gen-Z Led Protests in Nepal

The demonstrations were led by Gen-Z youth, who saw the social media ban as an attack on free speech and digital freedom.

Protesters chanted “Shut down corruption, not social media”, linking the restrictions to long-standing frustrations with corruption and nepotism. Viral backlash against “nepo kids”—children of political elites—fueled anger on the streets.

Government Response and Political Fallout

The government defended the ban as a regulatory measure. But the crackdown on protesters only intensified public outrage.

Security forces used heavy force, while the army’s deployment highlighted how seriously the state viewed the unrest. Under pressure, the Home Minister resigned, signaling the political cost of the crisis.

Curfew, Army Deployment, and Casualties

Curfews restricted public movement in key areas of Kathmandu, including Singha Durbar and Parliament. Soldiers and police guarded barricades as protesters attempted to push through.

The violence left at least 19 dead and hundreds wounded. Human rights groups condemned the excessive use of force, while hospitals struggled to manage the surge of casualties.

International Reactions and Constitutional Concerns

The Nepal social media ban protests drew strong global reactions. Rights groups called the ban a violation of constitutional freedom of expression.

Neighboring India voiced security concerns over unrest along the border, while international media described the protests as a struggle between digital-age freedoms and state censorship.

Conclusion

The September 2025 Nepal protests began as a fight against a social media ban but grew into a wider movement against corruption and inequality.

With curfews, the army on the streets, dozens dead, and the Home Minister’s resignation, Nepal now faces a critical test of democratic accountability.

These protests are a stark reminder that in today’s world, restricting online platforms can spark unrest far beyond the digital space.