Nepal Gen Z unrest kills 19 people; protesters torch parliament and homes | Fox News
Nepal witnessed one of its deadliest political uprisings on September 9, 2025, as violent protests led by Generation Z spiraled across the nation. What began as demonstrations against a government ban on popular social media apps quickly escalated into chaos, leaving at least 19 people dead and hundreds more injured.
Why Are Nepal’s Youth Protesting?
The protests erupted after the government temporarily banned major social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. While the ban was later lifted, frustration among young Nepalis had already reached boiling point.
For many protesters, the ban symbolized deeper issues—political corruption, lack of opportunities, and declining trust in leadership. Students and young professionals have been at the forefront of these demonstrations, calling for the dissolution of parliament and accountability from politicians.
One student protester told reporters:
“The country has gotten so bad that, for us youths, there is no reason for us to stay.”
Violence Hits Kathmandu and Beyond
The situation turned dire when protesters stormed the parliament building in Kathmandu, setting parts of the Singha Durbar palace complex on fire. Black smoke filled the skies above the capital as demonstrators also targeted the homes of top government officials.
Former Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal’s residence was among those attacked, leaving his wife critically injured after the house was torched.
Prime Minister Resigns Under Pressure
Amid escalating violence, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday after his own home was set ablaze. His resignation, however, has not calmed the unrest. Protesters insist they will continue their movement until deeper political reforms are implemented.
Prisons Stormed, Inmates Escape
Adding to the turmoil, two prisons in western Nepal were stormed, allowing nearly 900 inmates to escape. Officials fear this could worsen instability if order is not quickly restored.
Security Forces Struggle to Contain Violence
Riot police clashed with demonstrators using sticks, stones, and even water cannons outside parliament. The Nepal Army has warned that if the unrest continues, it may be forced to take control of the situation.
Army Chief Ashok Raj Sigdel appealed for calm, urging protesters to engage in dialogue rather than violence.
What’s Next for Nepal?
This uprising has highlighted a growing generational divide in Nepalese politics. Gen Z is increasingly frustrated with corruption, unemployment, and lack of digital freedom. Analysts believe the protests could reshape Nepal’s political future if the government fails to address these concerns quickly.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu has advised its citizens to avoid large gatherings, signaling fears of continued instability.
Takeaway: Nepal’s Gen Z protests are not just about social media bans—they reflect deeper frustrations over corruption and governance. With 19 lives lost and the Prime Minister’s resignation, the Himalayan nation faces an uncertain political road ahead.
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