Despite giving a full 30-day deadline, major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter) have not completed their registration in Nepal. The deadline given by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology ended on Sunday, but these platforms are still not listed.
Minister Confirms Delay, Says Final Deadline Coming
Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung shared that these platforms failed to register within the given time. Now, the government is planning to give them one last opportunity — possibly an extra 7 to 15 days — to complete the process.
Ban Could Happen if They Ignore Again
If the platforms do not register within this extended time, the government may ban their operations inside Nepal. “We saw they are ignoring our request,” Minister Gurung said during a talk with Tekpana. “Instead of banning them immediately, we want to wait a few more days as a final warning. But if they still don’t act, we will take necessary steps.”
Why Social Media Needs to Register in Nepal
According to the Social Media Operating Guidelines 2080, all social media platforms must be officially registered to operate in Nepal. On Chaitra 7 (around March), the government gave a third public notice, asking platforms to register within 30 days. That deadline is now over.
Only a Few Platforms Have Registered So Far
So far, only TikTok, Viber, SARL, and Saaransh Media Lab have completed the listing process in Nepal. Popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X have still not registered.
What the Government Expects from Social Media
The government has asked platforms to:
- Register at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology
- Appoint a local contact person in Nepal
- Assign an official to handle user complaints
- Name someone to monitor self-regulation rules
Additional Responsibilities for Registered Platforms
According to the guidelines, social media companies also need to:
- Support Nepali tourism promotion
- Help spread cybersecurity awareness and digital literacy
- Contribute to improving digital education in schools and colleges
Remove Harmful Content and Support Local Languages
The platforms must also:
- Remove illegal or harmful content that could disturb social harmony or promote cybercrime
- Work with government authorities to filter content in Nepali and other local languages
- Use proper technologies for moderation and language support
Government Seeks Everyone’s Help
The Ministry has urged all stakeholders, including the platforms, to follow these rules. The goal is to create a safe, organized, and well-regulated digital space in Nepal.
