At least 19 people were killed on Monday as youth stormed the streets of Nepal in protest against social media ban.

Following the government’s ban on social media platforms, including Facebook, X, WhatsApp, and YouTube, last week, thousands of youths took to the streets, pressuring the government to reverse it.

Nepalese police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters as they forced their way through the barricade, invading the Nepal parliament complex in Kathmandu.

Prithvi Subba, Nepal’s Minister for Communication, told the BBC police had to deploy force to tame the protesters.

Some of the youth students in their school and college uniforms joined the demonstrations that turned bloody as police clamped down on protesters.

Placards held by protesters read: “Shut down corruption and not social media,” “Unban social media,” and “Youths against corruption.”

UN Resident Coordinator Hanaa Fikry Ahmed Singer, in a post on X, expressed sadness over the loss of lives during the protests.

“Deeply saddened by reports of loss of life and injuries during today’s demonstrations in Nepal. Heartfelt condolences to the families affected,” said Ms Singer.

She added, “I urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint and caution, ensuring that citizens can safely and peacefully exercise their democratic rights.”