In the capital city of Kathmandu, young protesters initiated their demonstration by singing the national anthem while waving national flags. They then proceeded to voice their opposition to restrictions on social media and government corruption through chants.

Young demonstrators gathered in the capital to demand an end to corruption and the lifting of social media bans. Source: AAP / NARENDRA SHRESTHA/EPA

The crowd swelled as it crossed into a restricted area close to the parliament and pushed through barbed wire.

Similar protests were organised in other districts across the country.

What triggered the protests?

“We want to see change. Others have endured this, but it has to end with our generation,” she told AFP.

Violence erupted in the streets as police baton-charged protesters. Source: AAP / EPA / Narenda Shrestha

Since the ban, videos contrasting the struggles of ordinary Nepalis with the children of politicians flaunting luxury goods and expensive vacations have gone viral on TikTok, which is still operating.