Kathmandu, Nepal – A massive wave of youth-led protests, described as the worst unrest in Nepal in decades, has resulted in the resignation of prime minister K.P. Sharma Oli and the reversal of a widely condemned social media ban. The demonstrations, led by Nepalese citizens between the ages of 13 and 28, have left at least 19 people dead and over 100 injured following violent clashes with security forces.

The protests were initially ignited by a government decision to block 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. The blackout was imposed after these companies failed to comply with a new directive mandating them to register with the ministry of communications and information technology within one week. For a generation that grew up online, a move perceived as an infringement on free speech and digital rights was the final straw.

While the social media blackout was the immediate trigger, the movement channeled a deep-seated anger over systemic corruption, political stagnation, and a lack of economic opportunity. Protesters have voiced widespread frustration with a political class they see as serving its own interests, stunting the growth of the nation which relies heavily on remittances from Nepalis working abroad.

The situation escalated dramatically as peaceful demonstrations turned into deadly confrontations. Protesters breached the parliament building premises in Kathmandu, prompting the deployment of the army. Security forces reportedly opened fire on crowds, leading to the fatalities. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have condemned the government's use of lethal force and called for restraint and accountability.

Facing immense pressure, prime minister K.P. Sharma Oli announced his resignation on september 9. His departure was followed by that of other officials, including home minister Ramesh Lekhak, who stepped down on moral grounds. In an emergency cabinet meeting, the government also lifted the social media ban, directly addressing a key demand of the youth movement.

Despite the concessions, the political crisis is far from over. The government has formed a committee to investigate the causes of the unrest and has called for an all-party meeting to seek a resolution. However, an indefinite curfew remains in place in Kathmandu and other districts, and public gatherings are banned. Protests have continued in the capital, with demonstrators defying the curfew, signaling that the resignation of the prime minister and the lifting of the ban may not be enough to quell the public's demand for deeper, systemic change.