Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday following days of nationwide unrest triggered by the government’s ban on several popular social media platforms. The move, which restricted access to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X, was introduced after the companies failed to register under new regulations. However, the decision quickly fueled anger among young citizens, sparking large demonstrations across the country.

The protests, led primarily by students and youth groups, escalated into violent clashes with security forces, particularly in Kathmandu. Officials confirmed that at least 19 people lost their lives and dozens were injured during the confrontations. Demonstrators accused the government of curbing freedom of expression and ignoring the voices of the younger generation.

Although authorities lifted the ban in an effort to calm tensions, the decision came too late to ease public anger. Prime Minister Oli announced his resignation, acknowledging the scale of the crisis. He also promised compensation for the families of the deceased, free medical treatment for the injured, and the formation of an inquiry panel within 15 days to investigate the violence.

The crisis also led to the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who stepped down on moral grounds, accepting responsibility for the deaths during the protests. Political analysts say the events mark one of the most serious challenges to Nepal’s leadership in recent years, with the youth-led movement highlighting growing frustration over governance and restrictions on digital freedoms.