Nineteen killed in Nepal protests against corruption and internet bans

"Nepal has lifted its social media ban one day after protests turned deadly, with at least 19 people killed by security forces as demonstrators rallied against internet restrictions and government corruption. Police fatally shot 17 people in Kathmandu, according to spokesman Shekhar Khanal, with two additional deaths reported in eastern Nepal's Sunsari district. Officers deployed rubber bullets, tear gas, water cannons and batons when protesters broke through barbed wire barriers attempting to reach Parliament."

"Approximately 400 people sustained injuries, including more than 100 police officers. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned following the violence. I had been there for a peaceful protest, but the government used force, said 20-year-old Iman Magar, who was struck in his right arm. It was not a rubber bullet but a metallic one, and it took away a part of my hand. The doctor says I need to undergo an operation."

"Emergency vehicles rushed the wounded to hospitals throughout the city. I have never seen such a disturbing situation at the hospital, said Ranjana Nepal, information officer at the Civil Service Hospital. Tear gas entered the hospital area as well, making it difficult for doctors to work. The social media ban triggered widespread anger, particularly among younger Nepalis who depend on these platforms for communication. Amnesty International reported that authorities used live ammunition against protesters, while the United Nations called for a transparent investigation."

Authorities lifted a social media ban one day after protests turned deadly. Security forces fatally shot at least 19 people, including 17 in Kathmandu and two in Sunsari district, as demonstrators rallied against internet restrictions and alleged government corruption. Officers used rubber bullets, tear gas, water cannon and batons when protesters breached barriers near Parliament. About 400 people were injured, including more than 100 police officers. Emergency vehicles rushed the wounded to hospitals, where staff reported chaotic conditions and tear gas entering hospital areas. The violence prompted the home minister's resignation and calls for a transparent investigation amid allegations of live ammunition use.

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