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Nepal Enforces Mandatory Social Media Registration: Platforms Face Fines, Bans for Non-Compliance

In a significant move to regulate digital platforms, the Government of Nepal has mandated that all social media companies operating within the country must register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) and establish a local point of contact. This directive, part of the "Social Media Usage Regulation Directive, 2080 (2023)," aims to enhance accountability and ensure compliance with national laws.

Key Requirements for Social Media Platforms

• Mandatory Registration: All social media platforms, including global giants like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Telegram, are required to register with MoCIT. Failure to do so within the stipulated timeframe may result in a ban on their operations in Nepal. 

• Local Representation: Registered platforms must establish a contact point within Nepal and appoint an officer to handle user grievances. This measure is intended to facilitate prompt resolution of issues related to user privacy, cyberbullying, and misinformation. 

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The directive outlines stringent penalties for platforms that fail to comply:

• Fines: Unregistered platforms may face fines of up to NPR 2.5 million. 

• Operational Restrictions: Non-compliant platforms risk being banned from operating within Nepal. 

User Conduct Regulations

In addition to platform requirements, the directive imposes a 19-point code of conduct for users, prohibiting activities such as:

• Creating fake or anonymous accounts.

• Sharing hate speech or obscene material.

• Encouraging child labor, human trafficking, or drug abuse.

• Promoting gambling or terrorism.

• Breaching personal privacy or hacking others’ accounts.

• Sharing disturbing images or videos. 

Government's Stance and Future Steps

The Nepalese government emphasizes that these measures are crucial for ensuring user safety and bringing digital businesses under the tax system. The directive aligns with global trends where governments are enforcing stricter compliance on digital platforms to curb misinformation, data privacy breaches, and unregulated financial transactions. 

As the digital landscape evolves, Nepal's proactive approach to regulating social media platforms underscores its commitment to safeguarding its citizens in the digital realm.

For more information on the directive and its implications, visit the  MICT