Nepal has been gripped by deadly protests, predominantly spearheaded by its youth, following the government's decision to ban over two dozen social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. What initially appeared as a reaction to internet censorship swiftly escalated into a widespread "Gen Z" rebellion, with demonstrations spreading across Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Bharatpur. For Nepal’s young population, who are the largest demographic and heavy social media users, the ban directly disrupted their daily lives and ability to mobilise online dissent.

However, the social media ban was merely the "immediate spark" for underlying, deeply rooted frustrations. Protesters, many in school and college uniforms, chanted slogans reflecting widespread anger over corruption, nepotism, economic inequality, and a severe jobs crisis. An online "Nepo Babies" trend had previously highlighted the lavish lifestyles of politicians' children amidst national hardship, further fueling public resentment. The unrest has tragically resulted in at least 19 deaths and over 50 injuries, with security forces employing tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons.