Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising Turns Deadly: 21 Killed in Anti-Corruption Protests

From the protests in Nepal (Image Source)

Nepal’s fragile democracy was shaken on September 8 when protests led by Generation Z activists against corruption and censorship turned deadly, leaving 21 people killed and hundreds more injured after police opened fire on demonstrators.

“We want our country back. We came to stop corruption,” said protester Sabana Budathoki, speaking to the BBC.

The unrest marks one of the deadliest crackdowns in Nepal since the end of its civil war in 2006, exposing deep frustration among the country’s youth.

Social Media Ban Sparks Outrage

The protests were triggered by the government’s decision to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, citing concerns over misinformation. For Nepal’s digitally active Gen Z, already frustrated by stagnant politics and unemployment, the ban became a breaking point. Demonstrations quickly spread from Kathmandu to other major cities, uniting students, young professionals, and grassroots activists in calls for transparency, accountability, and freedom of expression.

Violence and Casualties

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as police deployed tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition.

“I saw more than 15 people being shot,” one protester told India’s ANI news agency. “There are not enough ambulances, and the hospitals are running out of resources.”

Hospitals across Kathmandu were overwhelmed, with doctors reporting gunshot wounds to the head and chest. Civil society organizations say the death toll may rise as critically injured protesters fight for their lives.

Political Fallout

The violence sparked immediate political repercussions. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned under mounting criticism, admitting that “mistakes were made.” His resignation, however, did little to calm public anger. International condemnation was swift. Amnesty International, the UN Human Rights Council, and regional watchdogs accused Nepal of excessive use of force and called for independent investigations.

“The use of live ammunition against peaceful protesters is unacceptable and violates international law,” said an Amnesty spokesperson.

A Generational Struggle

For Nepal’s Gen Z, the protests represent more than opposition to a social media ban. Analysts argue they reflect pent-up anger over corruption, unemployment, and political stagnation in a country where the same elite families have dominated for decades. The uprising has become a defining moment for young Nepalis, who are demanding a political reset that prioritises integrity and innovation over patronage and control.

“This is a generational struggle,” said Kathmandu-based political scientist Dr. Prakash Adhikari. “The youth feel silenced, and when you take away their digital voice, you fuel a fire that is very difficult to extinguish.”

What Lies Ahead

While the government has promised dialogue, protesters insist on structural reforms, including anti-corruption measures, restoration of digital freedoms, and accountability for police violence.

As vigils are held for the 21 killed, Nepal faces a turning point: embrace reform or risk a prolonged youth-driven resistance that could destabilize the nation further.