Breaking News

Nepal Bans 26 Major Social Media Platforms

by VARINDIA 2025-09-05

Social Media Platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube are caught in a Digital Regulation Crackdown by Nepal.

In a sweeping move to enforce digital oversight, Nepal’s government issued a nationwide ban on 26 top social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and LinkedIn. The block, which took effect on September 4, 2025, stems from these tech giants’ failure to comply with new government registration requirements enforced to bolster online accountability, cybersecurity, and misinformation control.

Regulatory Backdrop and Supreme Court Directive

Under a seven-day ultimatum issued on August 28, platforms were required to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, provide a local liaison, establish a grievance redressal mechanism, and comply with self-regulation mandates. Recent legal developments—including a Supreme Court directive—empowered the government to enforce these regulations.

Scope of the Ban & Exceptions

Popular social media sites such as Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, X, LinkedIn, Reddit, Snapchat, Pinterest, Signal, Threads, and others have been blocked for non-compliance.

However, platforms like TikTok, Viber, WeTalk, Nimbuzz, and Poppo Live remain accessible, having fulfilled registration requirements. Telegram and Global Diary are still under review and may soon be reopened.

Rationale & Government’s Stance

According to Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung, the ban aims to curb cybercrime, fake identities, and the unchecked spread of misinformation—protecting national security and social harmony.

He reiterated that platforms can be restored immediately upon completing the registration process.

Public Backlash & Freedom of Expression Concerns

Critics—ranging from rights groups to political opposition—warn that this blanket ban risks undermining freedom of expression, press freedom, and citizens’ access to information. Some even call for regulated engagement instead of outright bans.

The move disrupts communication and online livelihoods. Millions of Nepalese students and professionals abroad, who rely on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube for networking and study, are particularly affected. Content creators, who were just beginning to monetize on Facebook and Instagram, may see their revenue streams abruptly halted.

A new social media bill, now under parliamentary consideration, aims to formalize oversight, ensuring platform accountability and digital sovereignty. Critics argue, however, that legislative debate and transparent, targeted regulation would better preserve democratic values.