Nepal Lifts Social Media Ban Amid Protests That Claim 19 Lives

Breaking News: Nepal Lifts Social Media Ban After 19 Killed in Protests Nepal's government has lifted a ban on social media platforms after protests erupted across the country, leaving at least 19 people dead. The ban was imposed last week to block 26 platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, for not complying with a registration deadline. Timeline of Events: Last week: Nepal's government ordered authorities to block 26 social media platforms. Monday: Thousands of young protesters stormed parliament in Kathmandu, sparking clashes with police. Late Monday night: The government held an emergency meeting and lifted the ban. Immediate Impact and Response: The lifting of the ban has been met with mixed reactions. Some have hailed it as a victory for free speech, while others are concerned about the potential for further unrest. "We hope this decision will bring calm to our communities," said a local resident. The government has also announced plans to establish a new committee to oversee social media regulation. Background Context: The protests were sparked by a campaign on social media highlighting allegations of corruption and lavish lifestyles among politicians' children, known as "nepo kids." The movement gained momentum in recent weeks, with many young people taking to the streets to demand change. The government's decision to ban social media platforms was seen as an attempt to silence the protests. What Happens Next: As Nepal navigates this complex situation, questions remain about how the government will balance free speech with concerns around online regulation. The lifting of the ban is a significant step towards addressing the demands of protesters, but it remains to be seen whether it will bring lasting change to the country's social and political landscape. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*