Violent demonstrations in the streets of Nepal leave 19 casualties in opposition to the current regime.
In the heart of Nepal, a wave of protests has swept across the nation, ignited by the government's decision to block 26 online networks and the subsequent clashes with authorities.
The controversy began in August when the Supreme Court ordered affected online services to be placed under state supervision, aiming to combat the spread of misinformation online. However, the government's controversial decision to block certain social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram has sparked widespread protests.
The protests, primarily led by younger people aged around 18 to 30, are a response to the government's perceived inability to curb widespread corruption and the perceived restriction on their means to express their views. The demonstrations have led to clashes with police, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
According to reports, at least 19 people have died, with over 100 injuries reported, including police officers. The Kathmandu Post and other local media reported that police used water cannons, tear gas, and in some instances, live ammunition against protesters. Some of the injured protesters were in critical condition with gunshot wounds to the head or chest.
The Nepalese government has accused the platforms of not registering properly, but the current approach has been strongly criticized for wanting to expand its control over the platforms instead of regulating them.
The protests reached a climax in Kathmandu, where thousands of protesters attempted to storm the parliament building. The police in Kathmandu tried to prevent protesters from entering the parliament building, leading to further clashes.
In response to the escalating situation, Interior Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned at a cabinet meeting in the evening (local time) due to pressure from the protests. The resignation comes after at least 17 deaths were reported in the capital Kathmandu alone.
The protests against the social media shutdown have spread to other parts of Nepal, with reports of clashes and fatalities in the eastern city of Itahari.
As the situation continues to unfold, the future of Nepal's digital landscape and government accountability remains uncertain.
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