Kathmandu, March 21
The Nepali government has warned that Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram will be banned in Nepal if they fail to register within a month. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology issued a notice on Thursday, stating that unregistered platforms would face restrictions under Clause 3, Sub-clause (7) of the Social Media Guidelines.
The government has repeatedly urged platforms like Facebook, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn to comply with the Social Media Usage Regulation Guidelines, 2080 (2023). So far, only Viber Media SARL, TikTok, and Weetok have registered. The guidelines mandate platforms to register, monitor content, and ensure user data protection.
Additionally, a Social Media Bill in Parliament proposes that all platforms must register with the Department of Social Media within six months of the law’s enactment. Failure to comply will result in a ban. The bill also includes penalties up to Rs 2.5 million for violations and prison sentences of up to five years for offenses such as cyberbullying, hacking, and misinformation.
The government claims these measures will enhance accountability and digital security, while critics argue they could restrict free speech. The bill is currently under parliamentary review.
