Nepal's Gen Z Uprising: Youth vs. Social Media Ban and Corruption

Nepal has witnessed a powerful youth-led movement, often called the Gen Z Protest, that erupted in early September 2025. What began as digital outrage over the government’s sudden ban on major social media platforms has transformed into one of the largest youth-driven protests in the country’s recent history.

The Spark: Social Media Ban

On September 4, 2025, the government blocked around 24–26 platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, and X. Authorities argued that these platforms failed to register under new compliance rules. But for Gen Z—who rely on these tools for education, work, and self-expression—the ban felt like an attack on their daily lives and freedoms.

The “Nepo Kid” Campaign

Adding fuel to the fire was a viral online campaign calling out the children of politicians, labeled as “Nepo Kids” or “Nepo Babies.” These posts highlighted the lavish lifestyles of political heirs while everyday youths faced unemployment, inequality, and systemic corruption. The movement quickly evolved from digital frustration to physical action.

The Streets of Kathmandu and Beyond

On September 8, 2025, thousands of young people marched in Kathmandu from Maitighar Mandala to the Parliament in New Baneshwor. Similar demonstrations spread to Pokhara, Biratnagar, Dharan, and Bharatpur. Protesters carried books, sang songs, and displayed placards with slogans like “Shut down corruption, not social media.” Importantly, the protests were apolitical—organized without party banners or political symbols.

Political Support, Youth Leadership

Figures like Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah, former NEA chief Kulman Ghising, and the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) voiced support, but emphasized the need to keep the movement free from political manipulation. The protests were branded “The Final Revolution – We Are Punching Up.”

The Crackdown

Despite starting peacefully, clashes broke out as protesters attempted to reach Parliament. Police responded with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and batons. Reports vary, but casualties range from at least one confirmed death to as many as 14 fatalities, with dozens injured. Authorities declared curfews in sensitive areas including Singha Durbar and Baneshwor.

Why This Matters

This youth uprising is more than a protest against a social media ban—it’s a declaration of a generation’s demand for accountability, transparency, and freedom. It reflects:

• Digital to physical power: Online activism translating into street movements.

• Apolitical momentum: Rejecting traditional party politics and nepotism.

• Generational shift: Gen Z asserting their role in shaping Nepal’s democratic future.

Looking Ahead

Whether the protests will bring long-term change remains uncertain. But what is clear is that Nepal’s youth have sent a strong message: they will not stay silent on corruption, inequality, and restrictions on their freedoms. This Gen Z uprising may be the beginning of a new chapter in Nepal’s civic and political landscape.

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