Nepal is facing a digital dilemma as the recent government-imposed ban on 26 social media platforms ignites nationwide unrest. From Facebook to YouTube, popular apps have gone dark, leading to violent protests primarily driven by Gen Z demonstrators. The digital blackout, justified by the government, has ignited youthful fervor and tensions across the nation.
A Nation at the Boiling Point
Anger over the ban has spiraled into violent unrest across Nepal, with protests erupting right from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to remote corners of the country. Demonstrators, primarily young citizens, are clashing with police forces in what has become a volatile face-off against state decisions.
The Ban and Its Justifications
According to Kathmandu Post, the decision came after major platforms ignored Nepal’s governmental directive for mandatory registration — a move seen as essential by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology in asserting national sovereignty. Despite calls for compliance, giants like Facebook and Instagram were blocked once the grace period concluded.
Prime Minister’s Stance
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli defended the ban, personifying it as a shield for national sovereignty against unlawful digital influence. Oli’s firm assertions emphasize prioritizing the country’s dignity over unregistered digital presence: “How can it be acceptable to defy laws and disregard national dignity?” he remarked.
Full List of Banned Applications
The ban affects numerous widely-used platforms, including Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, and others, while some others like Viber and TikTok remain functional as they meet Nepal’s registration criteria.
Contradictions Fueling Fury
Critics of the ban argue that it is both preemptive and improperly implemented, noting that the legislative proposal cited as the basis for the regulation is yet to be legislated. For many, especially Gen Z, social media is intertwined with political engagement and economic livelihood; this abrupt policy has, therefore, hit a sensitive nerve.
Youth Movements in Motion
Young Nepalese, valuing their digital spaces for expression and political activism, are taking to the streets with revitalized vigor. With their livelihood and freedom of speech at stake, the protests have quickly become one of the most vigorous youth-led movements in recent history.
The Road Ahead
Whether these protests lead to a governmental re-evaluation or mark a shift toward stronger digital regulations remains to be seen. One undeniable fact is that Nepal’s situation highlights how digital liberties are becoming pivotal battlegrounds for modern rights and freedoms. As stated in The Economic Times, this pivotal event could define Nepal’s digital era for years to come.