Nepal’s Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has stepped down, citing moral responsibility, as the country reels from escalating youth-led protests triggered by the government’s controversial ban on 26 social media platforms. What began as demonstrations in Kathmandu quickly swelled into a nationwide movement, with cities such as Pokhara and Biratnagar also witnessing violent clashes.
At least 20 people have been killed and hundreds injured as security forces fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse crowds of mostly young protesters. Demonstrators—dubbed the ‘Gen Z movement’ – have accused the government of silencing digital freedom while ignoring corruption, unemployment, and growing inequality.
The unrest reached a flashpoint when protesters stormed barricades near the parliament complex in Kathmandu, prompting authorities to impose curfews and restrict movement in several urban centers. Despite the crackdown, rallies continued late into the night, with chants against Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s administration echoing across the capital.
Observers say the movement marks one of Nepal’s most significant youth uprisings in recent history, fueled by frustration over censorship and entrenched political dysfunction. Lekhak’s resignation, though symbolically significant, has done little to calm the streets, as demands for broader reforms and accountability intensify.
