What is the story about?
Nepal is in turmoil after a ban on social media platforms triggered chaos in the country, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on 9
September 2025. His exit followed a wave of “Gen-Z-led” protests against corruption and the controversial ban, which left at least 19 people dead. The ban, which blocked major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and X, has since been lifted. However, according to news agencies, the protests were also fuelled by anger over widespread corruption and nepotism in politics. Despite the reversal of the ban, unrest persists as young demonstrators continue to demand accountability and transparency.
What Is Happening in Nepal: Timeline of Key Events
4 September 2025 – Ban ImposedThe government ordered the shutdown of 26 social media platforms, citing failure to register locally and concerns over misinformation and hate speech. Platforms, including Facebook and X, were blocked.
8 September 2025 – Gen-Z Protests Erupt
Under the banner of the “Gen-Z protests”, thousands, many of them students, took to the streets, condemning both the ban and widespread corruption. Demonstrations spread across Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan and other cities. Protesters tried to storm parliament, prompting police to use water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets and, ultimately, live rounds. At least 19 protesters were killed, mostly in Kathmandu, and more than 200 were injured.
Also Read: Nepal Boils Over: Home & Agriculture Ministers Quit, Protesters Torch Communications Minister’s House
Monday Evening – Home Minister Resigns
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned, citing moral responsibility for the deaths during the crackdown.
Late Monday Night – Ban Lifted
After an emergency cabinet meeting, the government withdrew the social media ban. Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung confirmed, “We have withdrawn the shutdown … They are working now.” The government also announced a 15-day investigation panel, alongside compensation and free treatment for victims.
9 September 2025 – Protests Turn Fierce
Despite the reversal, unrest spread. Protesters set fire to the private residences of Prime Minister Oli, President Ramchandra Poudel and several ministers, while party offices, including the Nepali Congress headquarters in Sanepa and the CPN–UML office in Lalitpur were vandalised. The army was deployed and Tribhuvan International Airport was completely shut down.
PM Oli Resigns
Oli convened an all-party meeting at 6 pm, urging calm and calling the situation “unpleasant,” blaming a “gap between the thinking” of the youth and the government. But just hours later, he resigned, following the earlier exit of Home Minister Lekhak.
Speculation Over Escape
Reports suggest Oli may flee to Dubai, with sources claiming a private jet is on standby.
Also Read: Nepal In Flames: Gen Z Protesters Torch Political Offices Amid Social Media Ban Chaos - VIDEO
What It Means
Youth Rising: The Gen-Z movement reflects a deep anger over corruption and curbs on free speech.
Political Crisis: With Oli’s resignation and cabinet fractures, Nepal’s coalition government faces instability.
Uncertain Future: An inquiry into the violence is underway, but calls for sweeping reform are growing louder. Oli’s possible departure only adds to the uncertainty.
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