In brief
In Kathmandu, protests against a government ban on social media platforms escalated to violence, resulting in at least 13 deaths and numerous injuries. Demonstrators, mainly from the Generation Z demographic, argue that the ban threatens freedom of expression. Despite government claims that the measures aim to regulate fake news and online fraud, many citizens rely on these platforms for communication and business. Tensions rose as some protesters clashed with security forces, leading to the use of tear gas and water cannons. A curfew has been imposed in affected areas as the situation develops.
At least 13 people have been killed and dozens are injured in Nepal after demonstrations against a government social media ban led to clashes between protesters and security forces.
Thousands heeded a call by demonstrators describing themselves as Generation Z to gather near the parliament building in Kathmandu over the decision to ban platforms including Facebook, X and YouTube.
Nepal's Minister for Communication Prithvi Subba told the BBC police had had to use force - which included water cannons, batons, and firing rubber bullets.
The government has said social media platforms need to be regulated to tackle fake news, hate speech, and online fraud.
But popular platforms such as Instagram have millions of users in Nepal, who rely on them for entertainment, news, and business.
Demonstrators carried placards with slogans including enough is enough and end to corruption. Some protested against what they called the authoritarian attitude of the government.
As the rally moved into a restricted area close to parliament, some protesters climbed over the wall.
Tear gas and water cannons were used after the protesters breached into the restricted area, police spokesman Shekhar Khanal told the AFP news agency.
A Kathmandu district office spokesperson said a curfew was imposed around areas including the parliament building after protesters attempted to enter.
Last week, authorities ordered the blocking of 26 social media platforms for not complying with a deadline to register with Nepal's ministry of communication and information technology.
Since Friday, users have experienced difficulty in accessing the platforms, though some are using VPNs to get around the ban. So far, two platforms have been reactivated after registering with the ministry following the ban.
Nepal's government has argued it is not banning social media but trying to bring them in line with Nepali law.
