Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising

When a Social Media Ban Becomes a War on the Future To many, social media might seem like a luxury—purely for entertainment and distraction. But for Nepal’s Generation Z, these platforms are classrooms, career hubs, creative studios, and gateways to the world. Social media isn’t entertainment—it’s their voice.

It’s where they learn, express themselves, seek jobs, build businesses, and connect with global conversations. So, when the government abruptly banned 26 major platforms—including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, and YouTube—it felt like an attack on identity, opportunity, and freedom.

Regulation may be necessary. But this draconian and poorly timed ban only widened the generational rift, triggering something far bigger than political disagreement—it ignited a revolution of Gen Z.

What Transpired Amid Nepal’s Escalation

Yesterday, in a stunning turn, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned under immense national pressure following mass protests, police violence, and mounting casualties. As of today, 19 young protesters have died and over 100 have been injured in clashes that shook cities across Nepal. AP News, Reuters+1.

Protestors entered the Budhanilkantha residence of Nepali Congress President, Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife Arju Deuba manhandled the Deuba couple Tuesday afternoon. Video footage showed the couple beat and dragged and handed them to Army.

In a dramatic and symbol-laden response, protesters stormed the parliament building and set it ablaze, along with other government residences. Al Jazeera, AP News.

The government, sensing the crisis, lifted the social media ban—restoring access to the very platforms that helped fuel the protests. Reuters+1.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Oli announced a set of state-led remedial measures:

• Compensation for the victims’ families
• Free medical treatment for the injured
• An investigation committee to assess the causes and prevent recurrence, with a 15-day deadline for reporting. Reuters, Hindustan Times.

Despite this, the unrest continues—protesters are now demanding justice, accountability, and sweeping political changes beyond just the withdrawal of the ban. Kathmandu Post, AP News.

A Nation at a Crossroads

• The protests began with digital regulation, but quickly evolved into something bigger—a gen-z uprising against corruption, unemployment, restricted expression, and entrenched privilege.
• Today’s resignations, concessions, and institutional responses are key—but they may not be enough. The youth have tasted power-informed change and are likely to pursue broader systemic reform.

Final Words: A Prayer and a Plea

In the midst of turmoil, we must pause and honor those lost:
To the parents who buried their children today—your pain is immense, and your sorrow is shared. Your children were not rebels but bearers of hope—for a freer, fairer Nepal.

My deepest condolences to all who mourn. May the departed rest in peace.
Om Shanti. Om Shanti.