Kathmandu: At least 19 people have died after a protest led by Nepal’s Gen-Z against corruption and the ongoing ban on social media platforms turned violent across Kathmandu and other cities. The demonstrations, which had been organised by the younger generation, spiralled out of control after alleged infiltration by unidentified groups. This resulted in widespread vandalism, arson, and clashes with security forces.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed his grief over the tragedy, describing it as an “unimaginable incident.”

“I am extremely saddened that citizens lost their lives during today’s protest. I extend my deepest condolences to the families and relatives who lost their loved ones in this unimaginable incident,” he said.

The Prime Minister also announced the creation of a high-level committee to investigate the events leading up to the violence.

Mr Oli rejected claims that the government was seeking to shut down social media permanently. He clarified, “The government had not, and does not, adopt any policy to shut down social media.”

He explained that the recent deactivation of certain platforms followed a Supreme Court directive requiring social media platforms to register in Nepal.

What caused the violence?

According to the Prime Minister, the protest was disrupted by external forces. 

“Even the organisers had declared the protest a success and had urged people to return home. But infiltrators carried out acts of vandalism and arson,” he stated.

What decisions were made by the cabinet?

Following the unrest, a late-night cabinet meeting resolved to form a probe committee. A senior cabinet minister said, “A decision has been taken to form the committee to investigate the incident… The committee will get a mandate to submit a report within 15 days.”

Although many had expected the cabinet to lift the ongoing social media ban, no such move was approved due to strong opposition from the Prime Minister.

Ironically, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X resumed service late at night, though no official statement was issued.

How has the opposition reacted? 

Earlier in the day, senior leaders of the ruling Nepali Congress urged the government to remove the ban, citing the growing discontent among the public.

What relief measures are planned?

The government has pledged compensation for the families of the deceased and promised free medical treatment for the injured. Officials have also assured that accountability will be ensured once the probe committee submits its findings.

IANS inputs