Facebook and Other Social Media and Apps Banned In Nepal

Here’s the current situation in Nepal regarding social media restrictions:

Are Facebook and Other Social Media Platforms Banned in Nepal?

Yes — as of early September 2025, several major global social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, LinkedIn, Reddit, Snapchat, and others, have been officially blocked across the country. (Indiatimes, The Times of India, AP News, Kathmandu Post, Insightsnp)

This move followed persistent non-compliance with new government directives requiring platforms to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, establish a local liaison office, implement grievance redressal mechanisms, and follow self-regulation guidelines. (Reuters, Kathmandu Post, Nepal Ekhabar)

Platforms that complied with these requirements—such as TikTok, Viber, Nimbuzz, WeTalk, and Popo Live—have continued to remain accessible. Additionally, Telegram and Global Diary are reportedly in the approval or registration process. (Indiatimes, Reuters, Insightsnp, Kathmandu Post, Nepal Ekhabar)

Why Did the Government Impose the Ban?

The government cited the need to curb cybercrime, misinformation, fake identities, and threats to social harmony. The move was also based on a Supreme Court directive enforcing accountability of online platforms by ensuring they're registered and responsive within Nepal. (Reuters, The Times of India, Kathmandu Post, AP News, Indiatimes, The Financial Express, exchange4media)

Reactions & Concerns

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) cautioned that the sweeping ban infringes upon citizens' constitutional rights—especially freedom of expression, communication, and access to information. (Kathmandu Post)

• The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and 22 civil society groups warned that banning such platforms undermines press freedom and impedes citizens' right to information. They advocate for regulation, not outright bans. (Kathmandu Post)

• Many digital rights advocates and journalists argue that the measure is regressive and risks stifling democratic engagement. Some see it as authoritarian rather than constructive regulation. (Indiatimes, The Times of India, Digital Rights Nepal, The Financial Express, Reuters)

Can Platforms Return If They Register?

Yes. The government has indicated that once platforms comply—by completing their registration—they can be reinstated immediately. (Indiatimes, AP News, Reuters, Nepal Ekhabar)

Summary Table

If you'd like, I can walk you through the full list of banned platforms or explain how smaller businesses, creators, or students are navigating this new digital environment in Nepal.

• Indiatimes
• AP News
• The Times of India