Thousands of Nepal’s Generation Z have taken to the streets of Kathmandu in a large-scale protest called the “Gen Z Revolution” against rampant corruption in KP Sharma Oli’s government and its recent ban on 26 social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and YouTube.
What started as an online movement quickly escalated into street demonstrations marked by clashes with police near the Parliament building, forcing authorities to impose a curfew in Kathmandu’s key areas. Protesters view the social media ban as censorship aimed at suppressing dissent, while the government defends the move as regulatory compliance. The unrest has spread nationwide, reflecting deep youth frustration over political nepotism, economic inequality, and curtailed freedoms.
Youth Mobilise Across Nepal, Storm Parliament Despite Curfew
On Monday, thousands of young protesters poured into Kathmandu, many breaching police barricades around the Federal Parliament premises in New Baneshwor. The demonstrators, mainly from the Gen Z age group, chanted slogans such as “Independent voice is our right” and carried placards condemning corruption and censorship.
Police used tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds as tensions escalated and some youths climbed police guard structures. The Kathmandu District Administration imposed a curfew from 12:30 PM to 10 PM in New Baneshwor and nearby areas to contain the situation. Similar protests erupted in other cities including Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Butwal, underlining the widespread youth-led dissent.
Background to Protests: Social Media Ban and Political Crisis
The protests were triggered by the government’s September 4 decision blocking 26 unregistered social media platforms for failing to comply with registration requirements mandated by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Nepalese officials maintain that the ban is a matter of regulatory enforcement following a Supreme Court order issued last year.
However, many citizens and activists perceive it as a deliberate attempt to muzzle critical voices and control public discourse ahead of anticipated political upheaval. These online restrictions coincide with growing frustrations over entrenched corruption, nepotism within the ruling UML party, and lack of socio-economic opportunities for the youth. Hashtags like “Nepo Kid” and “Nepo Babies” have emerged, criticising political dynasties.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian acknowledges and supports the fundamental right of youth to peacefully protest and demand accountability and transparency from their government. This Gen Z-led movement, emerging in both digital and physical spaces, highlights the importance of freedom of expression and the need to address systemic corruption.
While the protests demonstrate high energy and commitment to change, it is crucial that demonstrations remain peaceful and focused on dialogue. The government must engage constructively with its young citizens to restore trust and foster inclusive governance.
