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September 12, 2025 – Nepal –
Nepal has been rocked by intense anti-government protests—led largely by young people (“Gen Z”)—that erupted following a controversial social media ban covering 26 apps, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X. The nationwide demonstrations are rooted in deep frustrations over corruption, nepotism, and authoritarian governance under Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.
The government’s ban triggered mass mobilization. Protesters decried the restrictions as infringements on free expression and pushed back against more than just internet censorship. The unrest has been particularly impactful in Kathmandu and other cities, where security forces used tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and, in many reported cases, live ammunition to disperse crowds.
Casualties were severe: at least 19 people killed and over 100 injured across the country. Among those injured are four journalists, who were wounded while covering the unrest.
Media outlets and journalists’ organizations came under attack during the riots. Over a dozen newsrooms and media headquarters were targeted on September 9; some offices were torched or damaged. These actions reflect growing dangers for the press amid escalating political tension.
In response to escalating violence and public uproar, the government lifted the social media ban after less than a week. Curfews were imposed, compensation was promised for families of those killed, and an investigation panel was announced to examine how the events unfolded.
Rights groups—such as Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists—have condemned attacks on the press, urging that journalists be safeguarded and perpetrators of violence against media-makers be held accountable. The protests and governmental response have spotlighted serious challenges to freedom of expression, public accountability, and press safety in Nepal.
Reference –
https://rsf.org/en/political-crisis-nepal-more-dozen-media-outlets-targeted-journalists-injured
Nepal protests: Media outlets torched and journalists injured in deadly unrest
