Tens of thousands of people protested in Nepal's capital Monday after authorities decided to block most social media platforms including Facebook, X and YouTube, saying that the companies had failed to register and submit to government oversight.

Protesters pushed through barbed wires in Kathmandu and forced riot police to retreat as they surrounded the Parliament building. Police fired tear gas and water cannon but were outnumbered and sought safety in the Parliament complex.

The situation stayed tense and the government announced a curfew for Monday around Parliament, the government secretariat, presidential house and key parts of the city.

About two dozen social network platforms widely used in Nepal were repeatedly given notices to register officially in the country, the government said. Those which failed to register have been blocked since last week.

TikTok, Viber and three other platforms have registered and operate without interruption.

The move by the authorities came as the government sent a bill for a debate in Parliament that wants to ensure that social platforms are “properly managed, responsible and accountable.” It includes asking the companies to appoint a liaison office or point in the country.

The bill has been widely criticized as a tool for censorship and punishing government opponents who voice their protests online. Rights groups have called it an attempt by the government to curb freedom of expression and violate fundamental rights.

Ap video shot by Upendra Man Singh