Bitchat Downloads Surge in Nepal Amid Gen Z Protests and Government Blackout

Bitchat, the encrypted messaging platform founded by Twitter's Jack Dorsey, experienced a dramatic spike in downloads in Nepal following the government's abrupt ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. The blackout triggered widespread protests, with Gen Z activists leading demonstrations against alleged government corruption and the communication shutdown.

What began as peaceful rallies in Kathmandu on September 4 quickly escalated into a national movement. By September 8, clashes between protesters and police turned violent, resulting in at least 30 deaths and over 1,000 injuries. Government buildings, including the Singha Durbar complex housing the prime minister's office, were targeted by arsonists.

Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli resigned on September 9 amid corruption allegations, prompting the government to lift the social media ban. During the blackout, Bitchat became a critical tool for protesters to organize and communicate, highlighting the growing demand for decentralized communication platforms in times of political unrest.