Violence Erupts in Nepal as Over a Dozen losing Lives during Protests Against Social Media Restrictions
Protests Erupt in Nepal's Streets over Social Media Restrictions and Corruption
Violence erupted in the streets of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, as police clashed with protesters who had scaled the walls of the parliament premises. The demonstrations, which started with the national anthem and chants against social media prohibitions and corruption, have been ongoing since last week.
The government's decision to block access to the Telegram messaging app in July, citing a rise in online fraud and money laundering, has been a major catalyst for these protests. Social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube, and several others have been inaccessible in Nepal since Friday due to the government's blocking of 26 unregistered platforms.
Instagram, a popular platform in Nepal with millions of users, remains operational, but the government has ordered affected social media companies to register in Nepal and designate a resident grievance handling officer and compliance officer. The cabinet gave the companies seven days to comply with these regulations, which were introduced last month following a Supreme Court order from the previous year.
The protests, which have spread to other districts across Nepal, are led by young demonstrators waving national flags. Bhumika Bharati, one of the protesters, believes that the government is afraid of a movement against corruption similar to those abroad. Another student, Ikshama Tumrok, 20, is protesting against the "authoritarian attitude" of the government, stating that the protesters want to see change in Nepal.
The situation at the Civil Hospital in Nepal is disturbing, according to the hospital's information officer, Ranjana Nepal. Tear gas entered the hospital area, making it difficult for doctors to work. As of the report, 10 protesters have died and 87 are injured.
In a statement on Sunday, the government stated that it respects freedom of thought and expression and is committed to "creating an environment for their protection and unfettered use". However, the imposition of a curfew in several key areas of the city, including the parliament, the president's residence, and Singha Durbar, which houses the prime minister's office, suggests otherwise.
The crowd swelled as it crossed into a restricted area close to the parliament and pushed through barbed wire. Student Yujan Rajbhandari, 24, stated that while the social media ban triggered the protests, it is not the only reason they are gathered. Videos contrasting the struggles of ordinary Nepalis with the children of politicians flaunting luxury goods and expensive vacations have gone viral on TikTok, which is still operating.
The government lifted a nine-month ban on TikTok in August last year after the platform agreed to comply with Nepali regulations. The decision by the cabinet came after a Supreme Court order in September last year. The protests in Nepal continue, with demonstrators demanding an end to corruption and a more open and democratic government.
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