Nepal Bans 26 Social Media Platforms Including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X

Kathmandu, Sept 5: In a major move, the Government of Nepal has banned 26 social media platforms, including global giants Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter), after they failed to register with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

The decision, enforced on September 4, 2025, comes in the wake of an August 17 Supreme Court ruling that mandated all social media platforms operating in Nepal to officially register with the ministry. The order aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight and curbing the spread of misinformation.

Authorities had given companies a seven-day deadline on August 25 to comply with the registration requirement. However, with no response from several major platforms, the government proceeded with a blanket ban.

Officials clarified that the restriction is not permanent. “Access to these platforms can be restored once they complete the registration process and adhere to Nepal’s regulations,” a senior ministry official stated.

The move has sparked debate across the country, with critics raising concerns over freedom of expression and digital rights, while supporters argue that it is a necessary step to hold social media accountable for harmful content circulating online.