Thousands of young Nepalis took to the streets of Kathmandu on Monday, urging the government to revoke its ban on social media and combat widespread corruption.
Since Friday, several social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, have been inaccessible in Nepal due to the government blocking 26 unregistered sites, sparking anger and confusion among users.
Popular platforms like Instagram have millions of Nepali users who depend on them for entertainment, news, and business.
Waving national flags, Generation Z protesters began their rally with the national anthem, followed by chants against the social media ban and ongoing corruption.
“The social media ban ignited our protest, but it’s not our sole reason for being here,” stated student Yujan Rajbhandari, 24.
“We’re rallying against the entrenched corruption in Nepal.”
Another student, Ikshama Tumrok, 20, expressed her discontent with the government’s “authoritarian approach.”
“We demand change. Previous generations tolerated this, but it must stop with us,” she told AFP.
Amid the ban, TikTok remains operational, with viral videos highlighting the contrast between ordinary Nepalis’ struggles and politicians’ children showcasing luxury lifestyles.
“There have been anti-corruption movements globally, and the government fears a similar uprising here,” remarked protester Bhumika Bharati.
Last month, the cabinet mandated that affected companies register in Nepal within seven days, establish a local contact point, and appoint officers for grievance handling and compliance.
This decision followed a Supreme Court directive from September of the previous year.
In a Sunday statement, the government affirmed its respect for freedom of thought and expression and its commitment to “fostering an environment for their protection and unimpeded use.”
Nepal has previously restricted access to major online platforms.
The government blocked the Telegram app in July, citing increased online fraud and money laundering concerns.
In August last year, it lifted a nine-month TikTok ban after the platform agreed to adhere to Nepali regulations.
