Kathmandu: The Nepal government has revoked its controversial ban on social media apps following widespread protests by Gen Z youth that turned violent, leaving 19 people dead and over 300 injured. The decision came after an emergency cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli on Monday night. Announcing the move, IT Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said the government decided to lift the restrictions in response to public demand, and instructed agencies to restore access to WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, X, and other platforms.
After violent protests, Nepal #government lifts ban on social media: The #Nepal govt has withdrawn its earlier decision to #ban #social #media sites amid violent protests by youths that left at least 19 people dead and over 300 others injured. #NepalProtests #Nepalprotest pic.twitter.com/uPm8QtjDvw
— Lokmat Times Nagpur (@LokmatTimes_ngp) September 9, 2025
The ban was initially imposed after major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, failed to register with Nepal’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology by the August 28 deadline. Authorities cited growing concerns over fake news and hate speech as the reason for the registration requirement.
However, the crackdown sparked anger among young people already frustrated with rising corruption and dynastic politics. Protests in Kathmandu quickly spread nationwide, escalating into violent clashes with police. With mounting criticism and casualties, the government was forced to roll back the ban, urging demonstrators to call off their agitation.