Nepal’s government has scrapped its controversial social media ban after days of massive youth-led protests shook the capital, Kathmandu — leaving 19 people dead and more than 300 injured.
Communications and Information Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung announced the reversal on Sunday following an emergency Cabinet meeting, according to PTI. He said agencies have been told to restore access to the platforms, just days after authorities ordered 26 sites — including Facebook and X — to be blocked for failing to register with the government.
Streets Erupt in Protest
The ban sparked outrage among young Nepalis, with thousands — many from Gen Z — camping outside Parliament. Gurung urged demonstrators to end their agitation, but tensions boiled over on Monday when some protesters breached the Parliament complex.
Police responded with water cannons, tear gas, and even live rounds, eyewitnesses told PTI. Clashes turned deadly, with dozens injured across multiple locations as police tried to disperse crowds.
Border on Alert
The unrest prompted India to put the India–Nepal border on alert, ANI reported. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), which guards the frontier, has stepped up patrols to prevent any spillover of violence. Officials stressed the move was “preventive” and that the situation was under control.
Home Minister Steps Down
In the wake of the violence, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned on “moral grounds,” according to Nepali Congress sources cited by PTI. Lekhak’s resignation came amid mounting public anger and nationwide demonstrations.
Why the Ban Happened
The blackout began Friday after the government ordered 26 social media platforms to be blocked for not registering locally. The list included Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and Reddit.
At a Cabinet meeting chaired by Gurung, companies were given seven days to comply with new rules:
- Register with the ministry
- Appoint a grievance officer
- Name a compliance officer
- Set up a local point of contact
Some apps — including TikTok, Viber, Wetalk, and Nimbuzz — have already registered. Telegram and Global Diary are in the process, but major global platforms have yet to comply. Officials said access will be restored once requirements are met.
A Global Trend
The move followed a September 2024 Supreme Court ruling calling for tighter oversight of unlicensed platforms, OTT apps, and browsers. The court upheld petitions seeking stricter regulation of ads and content.
Nepal’s brief blackout mirrors a global push to rein in Big Tech, with countries from the US and EU to India, Brazil, China, and Australia tightening rules over misinformation, privacy, online safety, and national security.
