Nepal has lifted a ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, following significant protests that led to at least 19 fatalities and over 100 injuries. The unrest began when thousands of young demonstrators stormed the parliament in Kathmandu on Monday, demanding the government remove the ban and address issues of corruption.
The government’s decision to rescind the ban was made during an emergency cabinet meeting aimed at responding to the concerns of younger citizens, according to Communications and Information Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung. Protesters conveyed their dissatisfaction not only about the social media restrictions but also about perceived authoritarianism within the government, with many holding placards calling for an end to corruption.
The ban, justified by the government as a means to combat fake news, hate speech, and online fraud, had been implemented the previous week after social media platforms failed to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Young activists, however, asserted that the social media ban served as a catalyst for their broader grievances regarding governmental corruption, with some alleging that the opulent lifestyles of politicians’ children are funded by corrupt practices.
During the protests, police employed water cannons and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed sorrow over the violence and attributed the turmoil to “infiltration by various vested interest groups.” In response to the public outcry, he announced that a committee would be formed to investigate the incidents and pledged financial support for victims.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned amid criticism of the government’s handling of the situation. The recent protests reflect ongoing frustrations among Nepal’s youth regarding governance and accountability.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp98n1eg443o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss