Nepal PM Resigns After Violent Protests Over Social Media Ban

Kathmandu: Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has resigned following violent protests sparked by a government-imposed social media ban. His aide, Prakash Silwal, confirmed to Reuters that “the Prime Minister has stepped down.”

The decision came after thousands of demonstrators defied a curfew in Kathmandu, leading to violent clashes between police and protesters. At least 19 people were killed and dozens injured during the unrest.

Protesters attempted to march toward the Parliament building, prompting police to use tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons. The situation escalated when enraged crowds attacked politicians’ homes and set fires at several locations.

The government later lifted the controversial ban, which had blocked 26 major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Officials had justified the move as an attempt to curb fake news and hate speech, but many Nepalis saw it as an assault on freedom of expression.

Before resigning, Oli stated, “We must resolve every issue through peaceful dialogue; violence is not in Nepal’s interest.”

Analysts say the turmoil has exposed deep public frustration over corruption, unemployment, and political instability, pushing the country into yet another phase of political uncertainty as parties scramble to chart the way forward.