Nepal Bans Social Media Platforms, Including Facebook, YouTube and X

A ban has been imposed on as many as 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X, and YouTube, used by billions of people worldwide. This is because these companies refused to comply with Nepal government's registration-related regulations. Nepal's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, clarified that the government repeatedly sent notices to these companies, but they were ignored. “Operating in the country without official registration is not acceptable. Therefore, these platforms will now be blocked immediately."

The government had already given companies a deadline until August 28. However, after that deadline expired, strict measures were taken. TikTok, Viber, and some other platforms have currently been exempted because they have completed the necessary registration. However, the government has also imposed a requirement for these companies to establish a contact office in Nepal.

The Nepal government has also introduced a bill in parliament to regulate social media. It includes provisions to bring more responsibility and control over the platforms. This decision will impact all sectors including education, business, communication, and entertainment. On the other hand, the government claims that this decision is necessary for the proper management and responsibility of digital platforms.