Nepal Bans Facebook, YouTube and Other Social Media Platforms Over Registration Row

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal on Thursday announced a ban on several major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, Reddit, and LinkedIn, after the companies failed to comply with new registration rules.

According to a notification from the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, all social media companies were instructed to register with the ministry by August 28, with a seven-day grace period provided. The deadline expired on Wednesday night, but none of the major platforms submitted applications.

The ministry stated that the ban was enforced to ensure compliance with national regulations and to bring greater accountability in the operation of digital platforms within Nepal. Officials said the decision is aimed at curbing misinformation, online abuse, and content that may pose risks to public order, while also ensuring that global companies adhere to the country’s legal framework.