Nepal lifts social media ban after protests leave 19 dead

By Muhammad MubashirPublished On 10 Sep 2025

The government had blocked Facebook, X, YouTube among other platforms last week, citing violations of registration laws, fake accounts spreading hate speech, misinformation and fraud. The move sparked widespread anger with thousands of young protesters gathering outside the parliament in Kathmandu.

Some demonstrators broke through barriers and attempted to enter the parliament building. Police used water cannons and rubber bullets besides resorting to baton-charge to disperse the crowd, causing dozens of casualties.

Following the unrest, the government held an emergency meeting late Monday night and announced the decision to lift the ban.

The prime minister expressed sorrow over the deaths, pledging financial support for the victims’ families. He also promised free medical treatment for the injured.