Seventeen Killed in Kathmandu Protests Against Social Media Ban

Sat Sep 13 2025 09:18:10 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A deadly confrontation between police and protesters in Kathmandu emerges after the government imposes a ban on social media platforms, resulting in at least 17 deaths and numerous injuries.

In Kathmandu, Nepal, police opened fire on thousands of protesters demonstrating against a government ban on social media, leading to the tragic deaths of at least 17 individuals and injuries to over 145 others. With continuing outrage over the ban of platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, the government enforced a curfew and strengthened security around key areas in the capital. Medical staff reported severe injuries among victims, sparking protests under the banner of 'Gen Z.' Critics argue the ban is an oppressive measure against free speech.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Police in Kathmandu opened fire Monday on protesters demonstrating against a government ban on social media, killing at least 17 people and wounding 145, officials reported.

The death toll was announced by police official Shekhar Khanal. Among those wounded were 28 police officers. Smaller protests continued throughout Monday evening.

Tens of thousands took to the streets around the Parliament building, responding angrily to the government's decision to block major social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, after these services failed to register with local authorities.

Protesters pushed through barricades and overwhelmed riot police, prompting security forces to open fire with live ammunition.

Following the violence, the government enforced a curfew in specific areas of Kathmandu, including around the government secretariat and presidential house.

Seven of the deceased and many of the injured were taken to the National Trauma Center, the principal hospital in Kathmandu. Medical experts reported that many injuries were critical, with some sustained gunshot wounds to the head and chest.

“Many of them are in serious condition,” said Dr. Badri Risal, a physician attending to the victims. Families anxiously awaited updates on their loved ones while crowds queued to donate blood.

Protesters were heard chanting, “Stop the ban on social media, stop corruption not social media,” waving national flags in a demonstration dubbed the 'Gen Z protest,' a movement representing young citizens born between 1995 and 2010.

The Nepalese government's restrictions have drawn widespread condemnation as excessive censorship aimed at curtailing free expression. Activists argue that the measures serve to silence dissent and discourage online advocacy.

The authorities' stance follows a previous ban on TikTok in 2023, which was lifted when TikTok executives agreed to adhere to local laws. In 2018, stricter regulations against pornographic content were also enforced.