Nepal bans 2 dozen social media sites
The government of Nepal has blocked access to 26 popular social media platforms after they failed to comply with a new registration requirement set by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter) are no longer accessible in the country. Officials say the move is based on a Supreme Court directive to regulate digital platforms but critics are calling it a direct threat to freedom of expression.
1.Why Nepal Took Action Against Global Social Media Platforms
Nepal’s authorities issued a mandatory order asking all digital platforms to register with the government within seven days. The rule required these companies to open local offices, appoint representatives, and set up complaint handling systems. Most major foreign platforms ignored the deadline and continued operations. As a result the Nepal Telecommunications Authority began blocking access. The government says it’s about accountability and digital safety but there are concerns over how sudden and strict the action was.
2. Who Is Affected by the Social Media Ban in Nepal
This decision has caused major disruptions across Nepal. Small businesses that relied on Facebook and Instagram for marketing have lost access to their main sales channels. Students and professionals are unable to use LinkedIn or YouTube for learning and job search. Many Nepali families who stay in touch with relatives abroad through WhatsApp and Messenger have found themselves cut off. The block has also affected news sharing and political communication as X and Reddit are among the banned sites.
3. What Comes Next and Will the Ban Be Permanent
The government has stated that the ban is not permanent and can be reversed if platforms agree to register and follow local laws. Apps like TikTok and Viber are still accessible because they completed the process. Telegram and a few others are currently under review. Civil society groups and media freedom advocates are urging the government to consider more balanced regulation rather than a full ban. Meanwhile internet users in Nepal have started turning to VPNs to bypass the restrictions.
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