Nepal Social Media Ban
International News: The move comes after Nepal’s Supreme Court, in a contempt case, directed the government to regulate all online and social media platforms. The court asked for proper registration, monitoring, and evaluation of content before platforms could continue operating inside the country. The Ministry of Communications and IT had earlier issued a notice, giving companies seven days to register under the “Directive on Regulating the Use of Social Media 2080.” The notice required platforms to submit details and appoint a local compliance officer.
Major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Reddit, Messenger, and Discord have all been blocked. The government has asked internet providers to cut access immediately but said platforms would be reactivated once they complete the registration process.
Interestingly, some platforms like TikTok, Viber, Telegram, and Nimbuzz continue to operate. Officials confirmed that these apps either registered on time or are currently in the process of completing documentation. Others like Global Diary are under review and may continue soon.
Nepal’s communication minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said repeated requests were ignored by tech companies. He argued the move was essential for regulation and accountability. Gurung added that once the registration process is completed, people will again get full access to these platforms.
Rights groups have strongly opposed the move, calling it an attack on freedom of expression. The Committee to Protect Journalists and Access Now criticized the decision, comparing it to censorship. They urged the government to bring transparency and restore access immediately.
Meanwhile, a proposed social media bill is already being debated in parliament. If passed, it could bring stricter penalties, including fines and jail terms for content deemed against “national interest.” This has triggered fears of shrinking digital freedom in Nepal.
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