Nepal Protest sparks nationwide anger after social media ban, leading to violence, flight cancellations, and empty border markets
On September 4, Nepal’s government banned 26 social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, claiming they had not registered officially. This decision angered young people already frustrated with corruption, unemployment, and restrictions on free speech. The protests, driven mainly by Gen Z activists, spread rapidly across the country.
Deadly Violence in Kathmandu
On September 8, demonstrations in Kathmandu turned violent. Water cannons, rubber bullets, tear gas, and even live ammunition were used by the police. At least 19 people were killed—including three police officers and the spouse of Ex PM of Nepal—while over 200 were injured. Enraged protesters set fire to the Parliament, Supreme Court, Prime Minister’s residence, and other government buildings, plunging the nation into turmoil.
Prime Minister Resigns
Amid growing pressure from massive protests, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stepped down on September 9 and, according to reports, moved to a military barracks for safety. A day earlier, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak had also resigned, taking responsibility for the violence. According to local reports, Agriculture Minister Ram Nath Adhikari, Health Minister Pradip Paudel, and around 20 politicians from other parties also resigned. However, these additional resignations have not yet been confirmed.
The government reversed the social media ban, announced compensation for victims’ families, promised free treatment for the injured, and set up a 15-day investigation committee.
Army Steps In, Flights Suspended
The Nepal Army took control of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and an indefinite curfew was imposed in the capital and other areas. Every domestic and international flight was cancelled or redirected. Four flights landed in Lucknow and one in Delhi, while airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet suspended services.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs advised citizens to avoid travel to Nepal, issued emergency helpline numbers, and assured support for those stranded.
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Impact on India–Nepal Border
The turmoil has disrupted cross-border life in Uttar Pradesh towns including Gorakhpur, Rupaidiha, and Maharajganj. Markets are empty, schools shut, and trade collapsed. Border security was tightened with SSB, UP Police, and PAC forces deployed across 73 checkpoints.
Global Concern and Calls for Calm
Nepal’s Army Chief Ashok Raj Sigdel appealed to protesters to stop violence and join peaceful talks. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the violence “heart-rending” and stressed Nepal’s stability is crucial for the region.
Countries like Israel and Russia issued advisories urging citizens not to travel to Nepal. The Andhra Pradesh government of India formed an emergency cell in Delhi to help Telugu citizens who got stuck in Kathmandu.
A Nation at a Crossroads
What began as protests against a social media ban has turned into a larger movement against corruption and misrule. With the prime minister gone, ministers resigning, and state institutions damaged, Nepal faces a turning point. The coming days will decide whether this crisis leads to real reform or deeper instability.
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