Nepal Protests Highlight Social Media’s Role Among Youth

The violent protests in Nepal, which left 19 dead and hundreds injured, mostly under 28, have brought attention to the strong influence of social media on young people. The unrest began over government restrictions on platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat but quickly broadened into a larger movement against corruption and perceived government neglect. Protesters circumvented the bans using VPNs and TikTok, underscoring the central role of digital platforms in youth mobilisation.

Political analyst Dr. M Bhargav observes, “Social media is integral to youth identity. Restricting access can turn grievances into large-scale dissent.” India faces similar challenges, with young users highly sensitive to disruptions on platforms that support social connections, livelihoods, and mental health, according to digital consultant Anita Mehra.

In Visakhapatnam, youth expressed concern over potential digital disruptions. “I rely on WhatsApp and Instagram to stay in touch with friends and for work projects. Any sudden block would affect everything,” said 24-year-old software engineer Ananya Rao. College student Vishal Kumar added, “Social media isn’t just entertainment. It’s where we discuss issues, organise events, and even learn. Restrictions could feel like we’re being cut off from the world.”

India’s dependence on foreign platforms, especially WhatsApp with over 70 crore users, adds stakes. Unlike China, which has a homegrown digital ecosystem, India relies heavily on external platforms for social and economic activity, affecting small businesses and content creators. Digital economy analyst Rohit Chatterjee warns that disruptions could ripple across income, communication, and social stability.

Experts emphasise that social media regulation affects daily life and livelihoods. Nepal’s crisis offers a cautionary tale. “Ignoring youth reliance on social media could lead to sudden backlash,” said Dr. Bhargav.

Kathmandu’s events underscore that social media is inseparable from youth identity and the economy. For India, careful policymaking is essential to protect freedom, support mental health, and prevent digital disruptions from spilling into streets.