The government has warned that social media platforms must register in Nepal within a month or they will be banned.
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology issued a notice on Thursday, for the third time, stating that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) must register to continue operating in Nepal.
The notice states:
“If social media platforms fail to register within the given time, the ministry can ban their operation in Nepal under Section 3(7) of the directive.”
The government has asked individuals, companies, or organizations running social media platforms to register with the ministry and assign a contact person.
Previously, the government had repeatedly urged platforms like Facebook, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn to register under the Social Media Management Directive 2080. However, only Viber Media S.A.R.L., TikTok, and Weetok (Saransh Media Lab Pvt. Ltd.) have completed registration so far.
The directive includes rules for registration, regulation, and monitoring of social media platforms. The ministry claims this step will make online platforms more responsible and help maintain a safe and respectful digital space.
Key Provisions in the Directive:
- Mandatory registration before operating in Nepal.
- Monitoring and removal of harmful content.
- Ensuring user privacy and data security.
The government will work with relevant authorities to enforce these rules.
Additionally, social media platforms must establish:
- A local office in Nepal.
- A designated officer to handle user complaints.
- A system for self-regulation and compliance.
Proposed Law to Regulate Social Media
The government has also introduced a Social Media Bill in Parliament. If passed, it will require Facebook, X, and other platforms to get official permission from Nepal’s Social Media Department within six months.
The bill states:
“Any platform operating without a valid permit will be banned in Nepal.”
If social media companies fail to establish a contact office or a complaint-handling system, the government can block their operations in Nepal.
