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Nepal has lifted a social media ban after protests that left 19 people dead, according to a government official on Tuesday.
The government announced it had reversed the ban on social media platforms that was put into place last week, stated Cabinet spokesperson and Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung.
The move came after intense protests—dubbed the “Gen Z” movement—resulted in 19 deaths and over 100 injuries in the capital and other cities. The protests erupted in response to the restrictions on social media.
“We have ended the social media shutdown. Platforms are operational now,” Gurung told Reuters.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed grief over the violence, blaming it on “infiltration from various selfish centers.” He also pledged financial assistance to the families of the deceased and free medical care for those injured.
“A special commission will be formed within 15 days to investigate the causes, evaluate damages, and recommend measures to prevent future incidents,” Oli added in a late-night statement on Monday.
The protests, which spread across the country’s cities, are called “demonstrations by Gen Z” by organizers. They represent widespread frustration among young citizens over the government’s perceived inaction on corruption and economic development.
Last week, the government moved to block access to several social media services, including Facebook. This decision sparked further outrage among the youth.
Officials explained that the shutdown targeted platforms that had not registered with the government, as part of efforts to curb fake IDs, misinformation, and hate speech.
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