MEA Advises Caution as Nepal Gen Z Protests Escalate Over Social Media Ban

Swift Summary

• On September 8,2025,anti-corruption protests across Nepal escalated after a social media ban imposed by the K.P.Sharma Oli government.
• At least 19 people were killed and over 300 injured in the violent clashes triggered by the protest.
• The Nepali government revoked the social media ban late at night on Monday, amidst mounting tensions.
• India’s ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an advisory on September 9, urging Indian nationals in Nepal to exercise caution and follow local directives.
• MEA expressed condolences over lives lost and wished for a speedy recovery for those injured.
• India emphasized restraint and peaceful dialog as resolution methods.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The escalation of violence in Nepal highlights deep societal frustration with corruption and perceived limitations on democratic freedoms such as free speech. While the Nepali government’s revocation of the social media ban may alleviate immediate tensions, its handling of this crisis points to underlying grievances that could persist if left unaddressed.

For India, stability in Nepal is critical given shared borders, close historical ties, and significant economic linkages. The advisory issued to Indian citizens underscores India’s pragmatic approach-prioritizing safety while maintaining neutrality. However, heightened instability could pose challenges for cross-border relations such as trade or migration flows.

India’s call for restraint indicates its desire to see resolution through peaceful channels without interference-a measured response befitting its role as both neighbor and ally.

Read more: Nepal’s Gen Z hits streets against corruption amid unrest