Why in News
- Nepal witnessed unprecedented protests led mainly by Gen Z youth against the government’s ban on social media platforms.
- Trigger: Government ordered registration of digital platforms, curbs on “objectionable posts”, and blocked apps like TikTok, Viber, and Bigo Live.
- Protests escalated into violent clashes near Parliament in Kathmandu; 19 killed, many injured.
- The movement reflects deeper anger at corruption, political dynasties, and lack of accountability.
Relevance : GS II (International Relations – India–Nepal, Democracy, Governance, Civil Liberties, Political Movements).
From Basics
- Nepal’s Democracy:
- Transitioned from monarchy → democracy (2008).
- Federal democratic republic with frequent political instability.
- Social Media in Nepal:
- Primary platform for youth expression, activism, and dissent.
- Used to highlight corruption, nepotism (“Nepo Babies”), and demand accountability.
- Especially critical for Gen Z (large share of Nepal’s population is below 30).
- Legal Context:
- Government claimed regulation was needed to curb misinformation and harmful content.
- Critics: Seen as muzzling dissent, shrinking civic space, undermining free speech.
Comprehensive Overview
Political Context
- Youth anger directed at entrenched political class (Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Sher Bahadur Deuba, K.P. Sharma Oli).
- Allegations: misuse of power, corruption in aid, infrastructure contracts, and wealth accumulation by political elites.
- Rotational politics among same leaders since 2006 peace process → perception of stagnation.
Social Dimension
- Gen Z frustration: lack of jobs, poor governance, and corruption.
- Social media as only outlet for voice → crackdown triggered massive backlash.
- “Nepo Babies” trend: exposing privileges of children of leaders.
Legal & Governance Issues
- Government rationale: curb fake news, hate speech, and “objectionable posts”.
- Reality: disproportionate restrictions → violation of free expression, association, and privacy.
- Opposition parties & rights groups: called it an authoritarian overreach.
Economic Concerns
- Nepal’s weak economy, high youth unemployment, and migration reliance (remittances).
- Social media bans hurt small businesses, digital creators, and diaspora communication.
Geopolitical Angle
- Nepal caught between India and China’s influence.
- Social media restrictions could push Nepal closer to China-style digital authoritarianism.
- Impacts Nepal’s democratic credentials regionally and globally.
Broader Implications
- Ban symbolises clash between youth aspirations vs. entrenched elite politics.
- Raises questions about state control over digital spaces in fragile democracies.
- May fuel long-term distrust in institutions and radicalisation of youth movements.
Key Takeaways
- Social media ban is only the trigger → the real issue is youth disillusionment with corruption, dynastic politics, and lack of accountability.
- Nepal faces a democratic backsliding risk if bans and curbs on free expression continue.
- Stability requires reforms: youth participation in governance, anti-corruption measures, transparency, and balancing digital regulation with rights.
