Nepal social media protests: Indian nationals advised to exercise caution, says MEA in new advisory

Demonstrators clash with riot police personnel during a protest outside the Parliament in Kathmandu on September 8, 2025, condemning social media prohibitions and corruption by the government. At least 20 protesters were killed on September 8 after Nepal police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon to disperse demonstrators demanding the government lift its ban on social media and tackle corruption. (AFP)

India has issued an advisory for all its citizens currently living in Nepal following the violent clashes over the social media ban. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs has advised all Indian nationals to “to exercise caution and adhere to the steps and guidelines issued by the Nepali authorities.”

Calling Nepal “a close friend and neighbor,” India has appealed for “peaceful means and dialogue.” The MEA further said that it was “closely monitoring the developments in Nepal since yesterday and are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with families of deceased. We also wish speedy recovery for those who were injured.”

What MEA says on Nepal? Full statement

"We are closely monitoring the developments in Nepal since yesterday and are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with families of deceased. We also wish speedy recovery for those who were injured. As a close friend and neighbour, we hope that all concerned will exercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue. We have also taken note that authorities have imposed curfew in Kathmandu and several other cities of Nepal. Indian nationals in Nepal are advised to exercise caution and adhere to the steps and guidelines issued by the Nepali authorities," the MEA statement read,

What's happening in Nepal right now?

In face of the clashes, the KP Sharma Oli government has lifted the ban on the 26 social media platforms. An AFP report has confirmed that all the apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram are running smoothly now. Though there have been reports of fresh clashes in Kathmandu, there is no official confirmation so far.