Kathmandu, September 5, 2025 – In a drastic move, Nepal has banned 26 popular social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. The abrupt decision sparked widespread outrage—especially among the youth—who call it a threat to free speech and daily connectivity.
What Triggered the Ban?
- Non-compliance with regulation: The government required platforms to register with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, appoint a local grievance officer, and establish self-regulation mechanisms. Platforms failed to register by the deadline.
- Supreme Court directive: The move followed a court mandate compelling online platforms to operate with accountability and transparency in Nepal.
What’s Banned—and What’s Not?
Blocked Platforms (among others):
- Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, X, Reddit, LinkedIn, Discord, Pinterest, Signal, Quora, Tumblr, Clubhouse, WeChat, and more.
Allowed Platforms:
- TikTok, Viber, WeTalk, Nimbuzz, and Poppo Live—these complied with registration requirements.
Notably, local app Hamro Patro has also applied for registration; X reached out to the government seeking to comply.
Government’s Justification
Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung emphasized:
- The action is aimed at “curbing cybercrime and misinformation,” and maintaining social order.
- Platforms that comply with regulations will be swiftly reinstated.
Public Backlash and Concerns
- Youth and workers decried the move as “digitally repressive,” launching protests and calling it an “assault on speech, work, and connectivity.”
- Digital rights advocates warned the ban risks Nepal’s ranking on internet freedom and e-governance indices—key to foreign investment and global credibility.
- Small businesses relying on platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp for sales are severely impacted, especially ahead of the festive season.
What the Ban Signals
This rare move underscores how governments are asserting control over digital spaces—raising critical questions about the balance between regulation and digital rights. While the state frames the ban as regulatory enforcement, critics fear it may set a precedent for censorship under the guise of security.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reason for Ban | Non-registration and Supreme Court compliance demand |
| Platforms Banned | Facebook, WhatsApp, X, YouTube, LinkedIn, more |
| Platforms Allowed | TikTok, Viber, WeTalk, Nimbuzz, Poppo Live |
| Public Reaction | Protests spark, rights groups alarmed by free speech risk |
| Economic Impact | Small businesses and e-governance initiatives disrupted |
| Restoration Possible? | Yes—upon compliance with local laws |