14 Killed as Nepal’s Gen Z Protests Social Media Ban, Corruption; Curfew Imposed in Key Areas of Kathmandu

At least 14 people were killed and over 200 injured on Monday, as violent clashes erupted between police and protesters across Nepal. The demonstrations, led largely by members of Generation Z, were in response to the government’s controversial ban on major social media platforms and widespread allegations of corruption.

According to hospital sources, seven deaths were reported at the National Trauma Centre, three at Everest Hospital, two at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, and one at KMC Hospital. Hundreds of others are currently receiving treatment at various medical facilities in Kathmandu.

The Nepal Human Rights Commission condemned the use of excessive force by security personnel, urging the government to respect the voice of the younger generation and to immediately halt violence against peaceful demonstrators.

Tens of thousands of young people marched in cities including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, Dharan, and Ghorahi, chanting slogans such as “We are the movement. We will fight against corruption.” The protests reached a peak in the capital when demonstrators broke through police barricades and stormed the premises of Nepal’s federal parliament in New Baneshwor.

Security forces responded with rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the crowds. However, the situation escalated quickly. “Many on both sides are injured,” said a police spokesperson, adding that efforts to control the protestors had failed initially.

In response, the Kathmandu District Administration Office imposed a strict curfew from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. in several sensitive areas, including New Baneshwor, Shital Niwas (the President’s residence), Lainchaur (Vice-President’s residence), Baluwatar (Prime Minister’s residence), and Singha Durbar (the main government complex).

“Movement, gatherings, demonstrations, or encirclement of these areas are strictly prohibited,” said Chief District Officer Chhabilal Rijal in a public notice.

The protests have sparked nationwide concern, with civil society groups, opposition parties, and international observers calling for restraint and immediate dialogue between the government and protest leaders.