Nepal on Edge: Rising Youth Unrest Sparks Widespread Protests

Wed Oct 22 2025 18:45:18 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Tensions escalate in Nepal as youth protests demand accountability from political leaders following a violent crackdown by police amidst social media restrictions.

Armed soldiers patrol Kathmandu following violent protests triggered by a government ban on social media and a police crackdown that resulted in the deaths of 19 people. As thousands of demonstrators voice their anger over political corruption and social inequality, the government prepares to regulate social media while addressing public safety concerns. The unrest has exposed deep-rooted frustrations among the youth over unemployment and political privilege.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (Deep Roots News) — Armed soldiers were deployed in the capital of Nepal on Wednesday, enforcing a curfew as the city grapples with escalating violence following intense protests. Thousands took to the streets to express their anger at government restrictions on social media and the police’s lethal response, which claimed 19 lives.

Soldiers took positions in key areas, aiming to restore order amidst ongoing chaos. Despite the military's presence, sporadic protests continued, with demonstrators blocking roads and storming government buildings.

As tension soared, the army announced that 21 suspected looters had been detained. Protests intensified after the prime minister resigned, failing to quell public unrest triggered by accusations of political corruption. The army went so far as to airlift some high-ranking officials to safety as protests raged.

Protests Sparked by Youth Discontent

The demonstrations, dubbed the 'Protest of Gen Z', erupted over the government’s temporary ban on social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, which officials claimed was necessary to regulate these platforms. A youth population disenchanted by high unemployment and the lavish lifestyles of political elites fueled the protests.

President Ram Chandra Poudel’s calls for peaceful resolution fell on deaf ears as anger boiled over. Despite the lifting of the social media ban, protests persisted, reflecting deep-seated frustrations over privilege and systemic inequality.

Targeting Political Power

Political leaders became targets during the unrest, with reports of public violence against Nepali Congress party members. Significant parts of government infrastructure were damaged, with flames engulfing parliament and other key buildings, indicative of the protesters’ fury.

As overturned vehicles littered the streets and the remnants of burnt structures filled the city, the people conveyed their discontent with a government they believe has failed them during times of crisis.

Government's Response to Social Media Control

The government is actively pursuing legislation aimed at regulating social media, intending to hold these platforms accountable. Critics argue such regulation is a vehicle for censorship, restricting freedom of speech while quelling dissenting voices.

The registration requirement imposed on social networks has sparked controversy, leading to widespread criticism as the government appears to tighten control over online discourse amid significant unrest.