Kathmandu: Large protests erupted in Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal on September 8, 2025, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 people as police attempted to disperse the demonstrators. Among the deceased, 17 were killed in the capital. The aftermath of the protests led to the resignation of several Nepalese ministers, including Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, as protesters set the parliament building on fire and looted homes and party offices. Over the course of two days, at least 72 people were killed and 191 were still recovering in hospitals, based on government figures released on September 14.
According to France24.com, the protests were fueled by public discontent over government corruption, unemployment, and the decision to shut down about 20 social media platforms. This decision stemmed from a Supreme Court ruling requiring social media platforms to appoint local representatives, a move perceived as an attempt at censorship. While TikTok and Viber complied, platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube were blocked, triggering widespread demonstrations.
The protests, intended to be peaceful, were organized by youths and members of Gen Z to voice grievances against government corruption and demand the resignation of the government. However, as the demonstrators approached the parliament, police resorted to using water cannons, tear gas, and eventually live ammunition, resulting in numerous casualties. Videos and images shared online depicted the extent of the violence, showing people with severe injuries, many of whom appeared to be young students.
Human Rights Watch highlighted the excessive use of force by Nepalese police, who reportedly targeted protesters' torsos, resulting in fatalities. The use of military-grade ammunition, including 7.62x51 mm calibre rounds meant for assault rifles, was identified as particularly lethal, with a high risk of causing fragmentation injuries at close range.
Eyewitness accounts described the chaotic scenes as police fired live rounds, with many protesters, including schoolchildren, caught in the crossfire. The situation escalated further when protesters breached barriers and entered the parliament on September 9, prompting a government-imposed curfew and subsequent army intervention to regain control by September 10.
The United Nations has called for an investigation into the deaths, emphasizing that freedom of expression, access to information, and peaceful assembly are protected under both Nepalese and international law.
