At least 13 dead after protests against Nepal social media ban

At least 13 people have died in Nepal following protests against a government-imposed ban on the use of certain social media platforms. The demonstrations were primarily led by young individuals who oppose the restrictions, which target platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. The protests erupted after the government introduced the ban, citing concerns over the spread of misinformation and the potential for social unrest. However, the move has been criticized by human rights groups and media freedom advocates, who argue that it infringes on citizens' right to freedom of expression and access to information. The situation has escalated, with clashes between protesters and security forces resulting in multiple fatalities. The authorities have responded with a heavy-handed crackdown, further fueling public discontent and drawing international attention to the issue. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the Nepalese government and its citizens over the regulation of digital platforms, as the country grapples with the challenges of balancing national security concerns and the fundamental rights of its people.