Youths Clash with Police in Nepal Over Social Media Ban: 5 Dead, 42 Injured; Army Deployed

Kathmandu, Sept 8: Violent protests erupted in Nepal today as youths — largely university and school students known as “Gen Z” — clashed with police outside the Parliament complex. At least 5 protesters were killed and 42 people, including security personnel, were injured. The Nepalese army has been deployed in the capital to restore order amid growing tensions.

Protesting a Social Media Shutdown

The unrest was sparked by the government's ban on 26 popular social media platforms, including Facebook, X, YouTube, and WhatsApp, commenced just days prior. The shutdown aimed to curb misuse from fake IDs spreading misinformation and hate speech.

Breaking Through, Clashes Intensify

Thousands of demonstrators, many in school uniforms, marched with placards demanding the reversal of the ban and an end to corruption. Clashes intensified when some entered the Parliament grounds, prompting authorities to fire tear gas, rubber bullets, and deploy baton charges. Curfews were enforced in key areas, including Singha Durbar.

Widening Crisis Awaits Government Response

These protests mark among the deadliest since the shutdown, raising mounting pressure on Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s government. The youth-led movement underscores widespread frustration with censorship and perceived authoritative crackdowns. Nationwide concern grows as similar protests threaten to spread to other cities.

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Sources: Daily Excelsior (original catalyst), Reuters, The Indian Express, Al Jazeera

Labels: Nepal Protests, Social Media Ban, Gen Z, Youth Unrest, Army Deployed

Tags: #NepalProtests #SocialMediaBan #GenZ #FreedomOfExpression #DailyExcelsior

Disclaimer: This article is a rewritten summary based on reporting by Daily Excelsior, Reuters, Indian Express, and Al Jazeera. Jammu News Portal does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of external content.