Following the Nepali government’s decision to restrict access to social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and X, widespread unrest has erupted. The youth, representing Gen-Z, have initiated protests. Clashes between protesters and police, as demonstrators attempted to enter the parliament building in Kathmandu, resulted in one fatality. A curfew has been imposed across several areas of Kathmandu, transforming the city into a garrison. Ashirwad Raj, a student protestor, shared his perspective.
Ashirwad Raj stated that a curfew is in effect in Kathmandu. He explained that their peaceful demonstrations were met with harsh actions from security forces. Many of his fellow protestors were injured, and one has died. He emphasized the significance of this moment, noting the ban on 26 social media apps in Nepal. He asserted that their goal was to convey their concerns to the government and that the repression would not deter them.
He referenced the actions of youth in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, who united to bring about change. Ashirwad further mentioned attempts by some individuals to disrupt the protest. The protesters were carrying Indian flags, and no political party flags were present. He noted that they did not try to enter the Prime Minister’s office, only attempting to reach the parliament building.
Media reports indicate that thousands of protestors took to the streets in Kathmandu, breaching barbed wire and surrounding the parliament. The crowd pushed back riot police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. Muktiram Rijal, spokesperson for the Kathmandu district office, confirmed that the curfew would remain in effect until 10 PM local time in Nepal.
