Kathmandu witnessed one of its most significant youth-led protests in recent years after thousands of young demonstrators poured onto the streets on Monday, voicing their anger against corruption and the government’s controversial decision to ban several social media platforms. The demonstrations, largely driven by students and first-time voters, quickly escalated into violent confrontations with security forces. According to officials, at least 14 people were killed and dozens were injured, sparking concerns over political stability in Nepal.
Authorities responded by imposing a curfew in key areas of the capital, including parts of central Kathmandu, after protestors stormed the Parliament building and clashed with police personnel.
Timeline of Events
When Did the Protests Begin?
The demonstrations began early Monday at around 9 a.m. local time (03:15 GMT). Crowds started gathering at Maitighar, a central neighborhood in Kathmandu known for its symbolic Maitighar Mandala monument. Within hours, the protest swelled in size, drawing thousands of participants from schools, colleges, and universities.
Where Did the Demonstrations Take Place?
The epicenter of the unrest was the busy Maitighar junction, but protestors also spread toward Singha Durbar, the seat of government, and eventually into the Parliament premises. By late afternoon, large sections of Kathmandu’s streets were occupied by protestors chanting slogans against corruption and censorship.
How Did the Situation Escalate?
Eyewitnesses reported that the protests began peacefully but took a violent turn after groups of motorcycle riders entered the crowd, allegedly attempting to create chaos. Some demonstrators broke police barricades and forced their way into the Parliament building, prompting security forces to use batons and tear gas. Gunfire was also reported during the most intense clashes, resulting in multiple casualties.
Why Are Nepal’s Youth Protesting?
The so-called “Gen Z protest” reflects growing discontent among young citizens of Nepal, who accuse politicians of failing to tackle systemic corruption and misuse of power. Over the past few years, a series of corruption scandals has made headlines, but accountability has remained elusive.
Aayush Basyal, a 27-year-old postgraduate student who joined the protest, described the event as “unprecedented” in scale. “There was wide participation from students, even those in school uniforms,” he said. “Surprisingly, I did not see affiliations to political parties. This was truly about the frustration of the youth.”
The immediate trigger was the government’s recent decision to restrict access to popular social media platforms, citing national security and the spread of misinformation. Critics argue the move was aimed at silencing dissent and stifling public debate.
Social Media Ban Sparks Outrage
The government of Nepal announced a temporary ban on several social networking sites, including Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, just days before the protests. Officials defended the move by claiming the platforms were being misused to spread rumors and incite unrest.
However, for young people in Kathmandu and beyond, the ban was seen as an attack on freedom of expression. Many students, activists, and even professionals rely on social media not just for communication but also for education, activism, and business. The abrupt decision became a rallying point for the protest.
Casualties and Police Response
Security forces in Nepal confirmed that at least 14 civilians died in Monday’s violence, though human rights groups fear the toll may rise. Hospitals in Kathmandu reported dozens of injuries, with several in critical condition.
Police officials said they acted to prevent further chaos after protestors entered restricted zones, but rights advocates have questioned the proportionality of the force used. Videos circulating online showed officers using tear gas shells, rubber bullets, and even live rounds in some areas.
In response to the escalating situation, authorities enforced a curfew in sensitive districts of Kathmandu and deployed additional paramilitary forces to maintain order.
Political Reactions
Government’s Stand
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, commonly known as Prachanda, condemned the violence but defended the government’s decision to restrict social media. He said the move was necessary to curb misinformation and safeguard public order.
The Prime Minister urged young citizens to engage through “legitimate channels” instead of resorting to violence, but opposition parties accused the government of failing to listen to public grievances.
Opposition’s Criticism
Leaders of opposition parties in Nepal called the crackdown excessive and demanded an independent investigation into the deaths. Some lawmakers said the protest was a wake-up call, proving that the government had lost touch with the aspirations of the youth.
Role of Nepal’s Gen Z
This protest has been described as a generational uprising, with Gen Z at its core. Unlike past movements led by political parties or unions, Monday’s demonstration appeared largely spontaneous, without clear affiliation to any organized group.
Analysts say that Nepal’s young population, over 40 percent of the country’s citizens are under 25, has grown increasingly disillusioned with traditional politics. Many are frustrated by unemployment, corruption, and a lack of transparency in governance.
Historical Context of Protests in Nepal
Nepal has a long history of mass demonstrations, from the people’s movements that restored democracy in 1990 to the 2006 uprising that ended the monarchy. In both instances, student groups played crucial roles.
The latest unrest, however, differs in its nature. It is less about ideology and more about accountability, transparency, and the right to free speech. Experts suggest that Travis Hunter, oops (ignore here since your keyword is “nepal,” I’ll continue correctly,) today’s youth-led activism could mark the beginning of a new era in Nepal’s democratic journey.
International Reactions
India, Nepal’s closest neighbor, has been closely monitoring the situation. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi expressed concern over the violence and urged all parties to maintain peace.
The United Nations and several human rights groups also issued statements calling for restraint and warning against excessive use of force. Observers stressed that curbing social media and silencing dissent could undermine democratic principles in Nepal.
What Lies Ahead for Nepal?
As of now, the government remains firm on the social media ban and curfew orders, while youth activists are vowing to continue demonstrations until their demands are addressed. Experts believe the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the protests fizzle out or grow into a nationwide movement.
If the government opens dialogue with protest leaders, the unrest could subside. However, if authorities continue with crackdowns and restrictions, Nepal may see prolonged instability.