Social Media Platforms Must Register in Nepal or Face Deactivation

KATHMANDU- As per a directive from the Supreme Court of Nepal, all domestic and foreign social media platforms must register with the relevant authority before operating in Nepal.

This order was issued in connection with a contempt of court case (No. 080-CF-0012), emphasizing the need to monitor and evaluate unregulated content.

Following a Cabinet decision, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has introduced a Social Media Usage Regulation Directive, 2080.

A public notice was issued on 2082/05/12, giving platforms 7 days to comply and register.

Platforms that failed to contact the ministry within the deadline are now subject to deactivation in Nepal.

If a platform completes registration, it will be reactivated immediately upon instruction from the Nepal Telecommunications Authority.

This move aims to bring accountability and transparency to digital platforms operating in Nepal. It reflects the government’s intent to regulate online content and ensure responsible use of social media.

In a bold move to strengthen digital governance, Nepal has initiated a nationwide directive requiring all social media platforms—both domestic and foreign—to register with the government before operating in the country. This decision follows a Supreme Court order tied to a contempt case (No. 080-8-0012), emphasizing the need for oversight of online content and platform accountability.

Social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube have become powerful tools for communication, public opinion, and social influence. However, their misuse has led to rising concerns over misinformation, hate speech, cybercrime, and mental health impacts.

Government spokesperson Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has announced that only five social media platforms have registered so far, with an additional two having submitted applications.

The registered platforms are TikTok, Viber, WeTalk, Nimbuzz, and PoPo Live. Applications have been received from Telegram and Global Diary.

Notably, major platforms like Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram (all owned by Meta), as well as YouTube (owned by Google/Alphabet), have not yet registered.

Yam Nath Ghimire, writing for Lumbini Patra, highlighted international practices that Nepal could emulate:

• EU: Digital Services Act ensures transparency and user rights.
• Germany: NetzDG law mandates removal of illegal content within 24 hours.
• India: IT Rules 2021 require grievance officers and compliance with government directives.
• USA: Section 230 offers legal protection to platforms, with some states applying “common carrier” principles.
• China: Mandatory labeling of AI-generated content and strict political compliance.
• France & Pakistan: Strong laws against hate speech and age-based restrictions.

️ Policy Recommendations for Nepal Experts and advocates are calling for:

• A clear legal framework for platform registration and regulation
• Strong provisions against digital threats and misinformation
• A balanced approach to privacy and freedom of expression
• Promotion of digital literacy
• Alignment with global standards while respecting local context

Public Sentiment “Soci​al media registration is not suppression—it’s the foundation for a safe, responsible, and healthy digital environment,” Ghimire wrote, urging collaboration between government, civil society, and tech stakeholders.

Nepal’s push for regulation marks a significant step toward building a more secure and accountable digital future. Whether this leads to meaningful reform or sparks debate over digital freedoms remains to be seen.