India Monitors Nepal Protests Closely Amid Social Media Ban Chaos
New Delhi’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is keeping a sharp eye on the rising tensions in Nepal, where massive protests led by the country’s Gen Z youth have turned violent. The unrest kicked off after the Nepalese government slapped a ban on 26 popular social media and messaging apps, sparking widespread anger.
In an official advisory released Tuesday morning, the MEA urged Indian nationals in Nepal to stay safe and follow all local guidelines from Nepali authorities. "Exercise caution and stick to the steps issued by Nepali officials," the advisory clearly stated, especially with curfews now in place in Kathmandu and other major cities.
The Indian government has also shared its heartbreak over the tragic loss of lives during these Nepal protests. Many of the victims were young demonstrators caught up in the violence over social media restrictions. "We’re deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured," the MEA said in a statement.
What started as peaceful rallies quickly escalated into chaos across Nepal. Tens of thousands of protesters hit the streets in Kathmandu and other cities, slamming the social media ban as a major blow to freedom of expression and pointing fingers at government corruption. Reports say at least 19 people have died in the clashes, with police using live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas to control the crowds.
As a close neighbor and friend to Nepal, India called on everyone involved to stay calm and sort things out through talks. "We hope all parties exercise restraint and resolve issues peacefully via dialogue," the MEA added.
The trouble began last week when Nepal’s government, under Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, banned apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, and WeChat. Officials said these platforms ignored new registration rules. Protests erupted on Monday, putting Oli’s administration under huge pressure.
PM Oli himself expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and promised action. "I’m extremely saddened that citizens lost their lives in today’s protest. I extend my deepest condolences to the families," he said. He also announced a high-level investigation committee to look into the violence.
Even some of the banned social media apps started working again later on Monday, according to reports, but the damage was already done.
The United Nations has stepped in with strong concerns about the Nepal situation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both the government and protesters to talk it out peacefully. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighted Nepal’s vibrant democracy and active civic space, saying, "It’s important that the government and demonstrators come together to resolve these issues peacefully. Authorities must respect rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression."
The Geneva-based Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights echoed this worry. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani pointed to "deeply worrying allegations of unnecessary or disproportionate use of force by security forces." She called for Nepal to rethink its social media regulations to match human rights standards and demanded a quick, transparent probe into the police actions.
With India closely watching the Nepal protests and social media ban fallout, the focus remains on de-escalation and protecting lives. Indian travelers and expats in the region should keep checking official updates for the latest on safety in Nepal.
