Violence erupts in Nepal as 19 people lose their lives during street demonstrations against the authorities.

In the heart of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, thousands of protesters, primarily young people aged between 18 and 30, took to the streets in recent days. Their cause: a government-imposed shutdown of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and the blockade of 26 online networks.

The protests, part of an ongoing movement against these restrictions, have been marked by widespread unrest and violence. At least 17 deaths have been reported in Kathmandu alone, according to police spokesperson Binod Ghimire. Two additional fatalities were reported in the eastern city of Itahari, where clashes between protesters and police resulted in violent confrontations.

The protests were instigated by the government's decision to block the online networks, citing a lack of proper registration by the social media platforms. This move, however, has been met with strong criticism from the protesters, who see it as an attempt by the government to expand its control over the platforms rather than simply regulate them.

The resignation of Interior Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who stepped down during a cabinet meeting, was a result of the pressure due to the police's actions during the protests. The police used force to prevent protesters from entering the parliament building, and reports suggest they employed water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition against the demonstrators.

The protesters in Kathmandu also criticized increasing corruption in the state, making their demands for transparency and accountability clear. The "Kathmandu Post" newspaper and other local media outlets have reported on the critical injuries sustained by some protesters, including gunshot wounds to the head and chest.

Over 100 people, including police officers, were injured during the protests. The Supreme Court had ordered in August that the affected online services should be placed under state supervision to combat the spread of misinformation. However, the current approach by the government is being strongly criticized for its heavy-handed tactics and disregard for the rights of the protesters.

The protests against the social media shutdown and the blockade of 26 online networks have not been limited to Kathmandu. They have spread to various parts of Nepal, with citizens voicing their dissent against the government's decision. As the situation continues to unfold, the hope remains for dialogue and understanding to prevail, leading to a resolution that respects the rights and voices of the Nepalese people.