Unrest Erupts in Nepal's Capital

In a shocking escalation of violence, Kathmandu's streets erupted into chaos as police opened fire on protesters opposing a government ban on major social media platforms. The tragic incident has claimed the lives of at least 11 individuals, with countless others fighting for their lives in local hospitals.

A Deadly Exchange of Force

Reports from the National Trauma Center indicated that seven of the deceased succumbed to their injuries there, while two others died at the Civil and KMC hospitals. Medical personnel revealed that many of the injured sustained serious wounds to their head and chest, causing families to anxiously await news about their loved ones outside the hospitals.

A Nation's Anger Bubbles Over

The protests erupted after authorities blocked access to popular social media sites including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, citing a failure of these platforms to comply with local registration requirements. Tens of thousands took to the streets, defiantly chanting slogans like "Stop the ban on social media, stop corruption, not social media!" as they waved the nation’s red and blue flags.

The Government's Response: A Tightening Grip

In a bid to regain control, the government imposed a curfew around key governmental buildings, including the Parliament. Protesters pushed through police barricades, forcing law enforcement to retreat inside, but the standoff escalated to gunfire as officers struggled to contain the situation.

Censorship or Accountability? The Bill Behind the Ban

The social media ban coincided with discussions in Parliament regarding a controversial bill that demands social platforms maintain local offices to ensure responsible operations. Critics have condemned this legislation as an attempt to silence dissent and curb freedom of expression, raising alarms among human rights advocates.

A History of Censorship