Nepal has ordered a nationwide ban on several social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, after they failed to register with the government by the set deadline. The government’s decision, which took effect on Thursday, September 4, 2025, follows repeated warnings and a final seven-day ultimatum.
The government stated that the platforms’ failure to register with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has led to a lack of accountability. According to officials, these unregistered platforms have been exploited to spread misinformation, hate speech, and rumors using fake IDs, leading to cybercrime and disturbing social harmony. Communications and IT Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung confirmed that despite being given ample time, major platforms like Meta (Facebook’s parent company) ignored the requests, leaving the government with no choice but to shut down their operations.
While major global platforms have been blocked, a handful of social media companies, including TikTok, Viber, WeTalk, Nimbuzz, and Poppo Live, have complied with the government’s directive and will remain operational. The government has stated that services for the banned platforms may be reactivated as soon as they complete the registration process and meet the necessary legal requirements.
Nepal’s action is part of a growing global trend where governments, including those in the U.S., EU, and India, are seeking greater oversight and accountability from social media and big tech firms. While regulators argue that stricter laws are necessary to protect users and maintain social order, critics say such measures risk stifling free expression. A spokesperson for Nepal’s National Independent Party, Manish Jha, commented that social media should be “legally monitored” and “made disciplined,” but not shut down entirely.
Key Highlights:
- Ban on Major Platforms: Nepal has blocked popular social media sites, including Facebook, Instagram, and X, after they failed to register with the government’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
- Reason for Action: The government cites a crackdown on the misuse of platforms by individuals with fake IDs to spread hate speech, rumors, and commit cybercrime.
- Compliance: Only a few platforms like TikTok and Viber have complied with the new regulations and remain operational.
- Global Trend: Nepal’s action is part of a broader global movement by governments to enforce greater regulation and accountability on social media companies.