Nepal Gen-Z Protest Turns Deadly: PM Oli Orders Probe, Denies Social Media Ban

Kathmandu – At least 19 people were killed as Gen-Z-led protests against corruption and the ongoing suspension of social media platforms erupted into violence across Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and announced the formation of a high-level probe committee to investigate the clashes.

“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,” said PM Oli.

He clarified that the government has not adopted any policy to permanently shut down social media. According to him, the recent deactivation of certain platforms was only in line with a Supreme Court directive requiring social media companies to register in Nepal.

Oli alleged that the peaceful protest was hijacked by “vested interests,” which fueled arson, vandalism, and violent clashes with security forces. “Even the organizers had declared the protest a success and urged people to return home, but infiltrators incited chaos,” he added.

Following a late-night cabinet meeting, the government decided to set up an investigative committee, which will be required to submit its report within 15 days, a senior minister confirmed.

Despite expectations that the cabinet would lift the social media ban, no such decision was made, with Oli opposing the move. However, late at night, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X began functioning again without any official announcement.

Earlier, leaders of the ruling Nepali Congress had urged the government to restore social media access, warning that the ban was fueling unrest.

The government has pledged compensation for the families of those killed and free medical care for the injured, while assuring accountability once the probe concludes.

With inputs from IANS