19 Killed as Nepal’s Anti-Corruption Protests Descend Into Violence; PM Oli Orders Inquiry

Kathmandu: A nationwide protest led by Nepal’s Gen-Z generation against corruption and the government’s handling of social media restrictions turned deadly on Monday, leaving at least 19 people dead and dozens injured after violent clashes erupted in Kathmandu and other major cities.

What began as a peaceful demonstration spiraled into chaos after unidentified groups allegedly infiltrated the gatherings, sparking incidents of arson, vandalism, and confrontations with security forces. Streets in the capital witnessed fires, road blockades, and running battles, forcing authorities to rush additional reinforcements.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli voiced “deep sorrow” over the tragedy, extending condolences to the bereaved families. He stressed that the government had not intended to shut down social media platforms, saying the temporary suspension of services was linked to a Supreme Court order requiring platforms to register in Nepal.

“The government had not, and does not, adopt any policy to shut down social media,” Oli clarified, while accusing “vested interests” of hijacking the protest. He noted that organizers had already declared the demonstration a success and urged participants to disperse when violence broke out.

A late-night cabinet meeting decided to form a high-level probe committee with a 15-day deadline to submit its findings, a senior minister said. While speculation grew that the cabinet might lift the social media ban, no such decision was announced. Ironically, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X became accessible again later in the night without any official statement.

Opposition parties, including senior leaders of the ruling Nepali Congress, had earlier urged the government to restore access to social media to calm public anger. Civil society groups also warned that prolonged restrictions could deepen unrest.

The government has promised compensation to the families of the deceased and pledged free treatment for those injured in the clashes, assuring that accountability will be fixed once the investigation is complete.