Nepal shuts down Facebook, X, YouTube in sweeping social media ban
The government has blocked 26 platforms after failure to comply with new registration rules
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Published: Sep 5, 2025 12:54 PM | 1 min read
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Nepal has ordered internet service providers to block 26 leading social media and communication platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Reddit.
The move follows a Supreme Court directive mandating that all domestic and foreign platforms register with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, appoint a local compliance officer, and create mechanisms for handling user grievances.
The deadline for registration ended earlier this week, but major global players, including Meta and Google, failed to comply. While platforms such as TikTok, Viber and Nimbuzz remain operational, heavyweights like Facebook and WhatsApp went dark on browsers, sparking widespread disruption among users.
Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said the ban is temporary and services will be restored once companies complete the registration process. However, rights groups, including Access Now and the Committee to Protect Journalists, have criticised the decision as a blow to free speech and press freedom.
The ban also coincides with parliamentary debate on a contentious social media bill, which proposes fines and jail terms for content deemed against “national interest,” raising fresh concerns about censorship in Nepal.
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