Archive · 5 Sep 2025
Nepal Blocks Social Media for Non-Registration After Deadline
The Nepalese government has blocked access to about 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
This is because these platforms did not register with the government as required.
The government gave them a week to do so, but they didn't comply.
The government wants to make sure these platforms follow local rules.
Some platforms, like TikTok and Viber, that did register are still working.
People who rely on these platforms for communication and work are affected.
Nepal banned 26 social media platforms due to non-compliance with registration rules.
The ban followed a Supreme Court directive.
Platforms were required to register, appoint a grievance officer, and comply with norms.
TikTok and Viber were among the platforms that complied with the directive.
The government stated the ban aimed to curb cybercrime and threats.
- Who
- Government of Nepal
- What
- Banned at least 26 social media platforms
- When
- Following a seven-day deadline
- Where
- Nepal
- Why
- Non-compliance with registration requirements to curb cybercrime and threats
Government's Perspective
Critics' Perspective
Purpose of Ban
Government's Perspective
To ensure accountability, protect national security, and regulate the digital space.
Critics' Perspective
A form of censorship violating freedom of expression.
Impact
Government's Perspective
Platforms can restore services by registering promptly.
Critics' Perspective
Disproportionately impacts journalists, students, and job seekers.
- Affected Platforms
- 26 platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, WhatsApp, Reddit, and Discord
- Reason for Ban
- Failure to comply with registration requirements
- Government Official
- Prithvi Subba Gurung, Minister for Communications and Information Technology
- Compliant Platforms
- TikTok, Viber, WeTalk, Nimbuzz, and Poppo Live
- Key Requirement
- Register with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and establish a local presence
Sources
Why Nepal Is Blocking Facebook, X And YouTube
Nepal to block some social media including Facebook
Nepal blocks Facebook, X and YouTube for not registering with government: All you need to know
Nepal bans Facebook, Instagram, X
No Facebook, No YouTube: Nepal Bans Major Social Media Platforms - Here's Why
Nepal bans 2 dozen social media sites including Facebook, X and YouTube. Here’s why
Nepal bans 26 social media platforms including Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube
Nepal bans Facebook, Instagram and YouTube over registration deadline dispute - Telegraph India
TikTok spared as Nepal bans Facebook, WhatsApp and other major social media platforms
Nepal bans Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
Nepal Bans Facebook, Other Social Media Platforms
Nepal bans Facebook, Instagram, 24 other social media platforms citing failure to register
Nepal orders ban on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X for operating without registration
Nepal bans 26 social media platforms including Facebook, X, and YouTube
Nepal bans major social media sites including Facebook, X, and YouTube
Nepal Blocks 26 Social Media Platforms Over Registration Non-Compliance, Citizens Face Outages On Facebook And Instagram