Nepal's government has lifted its controversial ban on social media apps after nationwide protests, led largely by Gen Z, spiraled into violent clashes that left 19 people dead. The decision came late Monday following an emergency cabinet meeting, with officials appealing directly to young demonstrators to stand down.

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung confirmed the reversal, saying the government had reopened platforms "by addressing the demand of Gen Z." However, he defended the initial shutdown, arguing it was necessary at the time. "Since protests were being staged using this issue as a pretext, the decision has been taken to reopen social media sites," he said, while urging protesters to call off their movement.

The government had ordered social media platforms blocked last week after companies missed a deadline to register under new regulations designed to combat hate speech, fake news, and fraud. Among the platforms reported banned were Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, Snapchat, Pinterest, and X. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli accused X of disrespecting Nepal's sovereignty by refusing to register in the country, adding that the government had pressed for compliance for more than a year.

Demonstrations escalated dramatically outside parliament, where protesters attempted to breach barricades, prompting authorities to impose a curfew and deploy water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets. Protesters carried placards reading "Unban social media" and "Shut down corruption, not social media," linking the government's crackdown to broader frustrations with corruption. Viral TikTok videos showing the stark contrast between struggling Nepalis and the lavish lifestyles of politicians' children helped fuel public anger.

The cabinet has now launched a 15-day investigation into the violence, while the United Nations has demanded a transparent probe into the deaths. "We are shocked by the killings and injury of protesters in Nepal today and urge a prompt and transparent investigation," said UN rights office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani. With corruption scandals eroding trust and unrest growing, the government faces mounting pressure to restore stability while addressing the deeper grievances that drove thousands into the streets.