Int’l Desk:

At least 16 protesters were killed on Monday 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.

“Sixteen people have sadly died,” Shekhar Khanal, spokesman for the Kathmandu valley police, told AFP. “About 100 are under treatment, including police.”

Seven protesters brought to the National Trauma Centre died, Dr Dipendra Pandey of the hospital told The Kathmandu Post. He added that 10 others are in critical condition, with gunshot wounds to the head and chest, and over 20 others are receiving treatment.

Three protesters died at Everest Hospital, Baneshwar, confirmed hospital official Anil Adhikari. He said more than 50 others are receiving treatment, with four in critical condition.

According to Civil Hospital Executive Director Mohan Chandra Regmi, two died at the hospital.

One person each has also succumbed to injuries at KMC and Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Maharajgunj. The identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed.

Police had used water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition against protesters. Demonstrations continue across Kathmandu and other major cities, with Gen Z protesters rallying against social media restrictions and government corruption.