Nepal Social Media Ban and Violent Protests Against Corruption Result in 21 Youth Deaths and Over 350 Injured. Government Repeals Ban Amidst Worsening Situation. PM Oli Expresses Grief and Forms Investigation Committee.
Nepal Violent Protests: Nepal is currently experiencing a significant social and political crisis. The student movement, which began in protest against a social media ban and corruption, has now escalated into violent demonstrations. In the latest development, Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has issued his first statement. In this statement, he has expressed his sorrow over the deaths of young people during the protests and has also ordered an investigation. Let's understand the entire matter in detail.
Public Outcry Ignited by Social Media Ban
The Nepalese government recently issued an order to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). The government's justification was that these platforms were being used to spread misinformation and rumors. However, this decision angered the youth, particularly the Gen-Z generation.
Thousands of students and young people took to the streets on Monday. They argued that social media is not just a means of entertainment but a voice for freedom of expression and democracy. Alongside this, slogans against corruption also began to be raised during the protests.
Protests Turn Violent
Initially, the protests were peaceful but gradually turned violent. Protesters attempted to reach the Parliament House premises. Police used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to control the crowd. When the situation went out of control, the police were forced to open fire.
So far, 21 young people have lost their lives in this firing, and over 350 people have been injured. This incident has shaken the entire nation of Nepal.
Social Media Ban Repealed
Following the protests and violence, the Nepalese government announced the repeal of the social media ban. Nepal's Minister for Communications, Information, and Broadcasting, Prithvi Subba Gurung, stated after an emergency cabinet meeting that the government respects public sentiment and has issued an order to resume social media platforms.
The Ministry of Information instructed the relevant agencies to immediately initiate the process of restoring Facebook, X, and other platforms.
PM KP Sharma Oli's First Statement
Prime Minister Oli's first statement on the violence and loss of life is considered highly significant. He said—
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred today during the protests carried out by the Gen-Z generation. Our expectation was that the youth would present their demands peacefully. However, various elements with vested interests infiltrated this protest, leading to the worsening of the situation and the loss of innocent lives.”
Oli clarified that the government was never in favor of stopping the use of social media. He stated, “There was no need for continuous protests for this, and it will not be allowed to continue now.”
Formation of Investigation Committee
Prime Minister Oli announced that a high-level committee would be formed to investigate the entire incident. This committee will submit its report within 15 days. The report will include the circumstances of the violence, responsible officials, and suggestions for preventing such incidents in the future.
Reaction from Opposition and Civil Society
This incident has further heightened the tension in Nepal's political atmosphere. Opposition parties have directly attacked the government, stating that this is against democratic values. Civil society and human rights organizations have also questioned the police action.
Many organizations have said that decisions like a social media ban are equivalent to suppressing the voice of the youth. They assert that this incident is a warning bell for Nepal's democracy.
