Protests in Nepal over social media policy met with gunfire by police, causing the death of at least 17 individuals.
Protests Erupt in Kathmandu Over Social Media Regulation
Tensions are high in Kathmandu, Nepal, following violent protests against the government's attempt to regulate social media. The demonstrations, dubbed the "protest of Gen Z," took place on Monday and resulted in at least 17 deaths and 145 injuries.
The protests were sparked by the government's proposed bill, which aims to ensure that social media platforms are "properly managed, responsible, and accountable." The bill includes a requirement for social media companies to appoint a liaison office or a point of contact in Nepal.
However, the proposed bill has been widely criticized as a tool for censorship and for punishing government opponents online. Rights groups have condemned the bill as an attempt by the government to curb freedom of expression and fundamental rights.
Outside the National Trauma Center, families waited anxiously for news of their relatives, as at least seven people were killed and many more were wounded during the protests. Dr. Badri Risa stated that many of the wounded appeared to have been shot in the head and chest.
The leadership that attempted to regulate and block major social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and X was headed by Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli. Following violent protests against the social media ban and alleged government corruption, Oli resigned, and the transitional government is now led by Sushila Karki.
It's important to note that TikTok, Viber, and three other platforms have registered and operated without interruption. Nepal previously banned TikTok in 2023 due to disruptions of social harmony, goodwill, and the diffusion of indecent materials, but the ban was lifted last year after TikTok's executives pledged to comply with local laws.
Neither Google, Meta (the parent company of Facebook), nor Elon Musk's X platform responded to requests for comment from The Associated Press.
In response to the protests, a curfew has been announced around Parliament, the government secretariat, the presidential house, and key parts of the city. Smaller protests continued into late Monday evening, with 28 officers among the wounded.
Outside Parliament, crowds chanted, "Stop the ban on social media. Stop corruption, not social media," and waved the red and blue national flags. The people were also seen lining up to donate blood at the hospital.
As the situation in Kathmandu remains tense, it remains to be seen how the transitional government will respond to the widespread criticism of the proposed social media regulation bill and the violent protests that have ensued.
