Kathmandu- The Nepal government has ordered the temporary ban of 26 social media platforms, citing the lack of local registration and compliance with national regulations. Major platforms affected include Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, Twitter (X), LinkedIn, Snapchat, Reddit, Discord, Pinterest, Signal, Threads, WeChat, Quora, Tumblr, Clubhouse, Mastodon, Rumble, Mivi, VK, Line, Emo, Jalo, Hamropatro, and Soul.

The decision aims to regulate unregistered platforms and ensure compliance with the country’s digital laws. Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has instructed all internet service providers to disable access to these apps for users in Nepal.

Authorities stated that while the ban affects numerous users, it is necessary to enforce proper registration and oversight of social media platforms operating in the country. Internet users may experience temporary inconvenience, but the government emphasizes that the move is intended to strengthen digital security and regulatory compliance.

Social media companies are urged to complete registration processes with Nepal’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to resume operations legally.