A youth-led protest movement in Nepal, fueled by outrage over social media restrictions and government corruption, has escalated dramatically into the country’s Parliament.
Thousands of demonstrators defied security barricades and stormed the Parliament building in Kathmandu. Security forces responded with gunfire, tear gas, and water cannons, leaving at least three dead and more than a hundred injured.
The government has imposed a curfew and deployed the army to regain control. According to AFP, Nepal blocked 26 unregistered online platforms last Friday, making Facebook, YouTube, and X inaccessible, sparking anger and confusion among citizens.
Last month, the Cabinet ordered social media companies to register locally within seven days, appoint representatives, and set up grievance and compliance offices. Officials insist the government “respects freedom of thought and expression” and claims these measures are to ensure “a safe and uninterrupted digital environment.”