Nepal's streets became battlegrounds on Monday as widespread protests against a controversial social media ban erupted into deadly violence. The government's decision to restrict access to platforms like WhatsApp, fueled by simmering public outrage over alleged government corruption, ignited a furious backlash. Security forces responded with a heavy-handed crackdown, leading to a tragic toll: at least 19 fatalities and hundreds of injuries, according to hospital officials speaking to local media.
The demonstrations, which spread across the nation, highlighted deep-seated public frustration with the current administration. Accusations of widespread corruption have already eroded public trust, and the social media ban, seen by many as an attempt to stifle dissent and control information flow, acted as a catalyst, igniting widespread anger and prompting citizens to take to the streets. The violence underscores the precarious political climate in Nepal and raises serious concerns about freedom of expression and the government's response to peaceful protest. The sheer scale of the casualties serves as a stark warning of the potential consequences of heavy-handed tactics against legitimate public grievances. International observers are now calling for a thorough investigation into the events of Monday, demanding accountability for the loss of life and injuries sustained during the protests. The future of Nepal's political landscape remains uncertain in the wake of this devastating escalation.
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Originally published at: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/08/nepal-protests-social-media-ban/
