The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has officially registered TikTok as a social media platform permitted to operate within Nepal. This move, completed on Tuesday, is part of Nepal’s efforts to bring more regulation and oversight to the social media space. TikTok’s registration was done under Section 3(1) of the Guidelines for the Regulation of Social Media Use – 2080 BS, which mandates that any individual, company, or organization seeking to run a social media platform in Nepal must register with the Ministry. This step comes as the government aims to ensure all social media platforms adhere to local rules and policies, thus enhancing digital governance.
The Cabinet initially approved TikTok’s registration on October 24. However, due to the Dashain and Tihar festivals, which are major national celebrations in Nepal, the final registration process was slightly delayed. Mamata Bastola, the Ministry’s information officer and under-secretary, confirmed that this approval was part of a broader government initiative to better regulate digital platforms and align them with the country’s legal requirements. As the popularity of social media apps grows, especially among young users, the government has recognized the need for a more structured approach to online activity management.
In addition to TikTok, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has issued a directive that all other social networking sites operating in Nepal must also register in line with these guidelines. This requirement ensures that the government can maintain some level of accountability over the digital platforms used by millions across the country. The guidelines are a response to concerns over data security, misinformation, and the responsible use of digital platforms, emphasizing the government’s focus on creating a safer online environment.
Viber and WeTalk are two additional platforms that have already registered with the Ministry. Their compliance highlights the Ministry’s commitment to bringing international platforms into alignment with local regulations. While these platforms may have originally operated without formal registration, the new guidelines signal a shift in Nepal’s digital policy, indicating that all social media services must comply with the established standards to continue operations. This approach reflects similar regulatory moves by other nations in response to the growing influence and impact of social media.
Other social networks are currently in the process of registration, as confirmed by Under-Secretary Bastola. The government’s push for compliance aims not only to regulate content but also to protect user data and ensure platforms are held accountable for their impact on Nepali society. As the Ministry moves forward with its registration efforts, it is expected that additional platforms will follow suit, marking a significant step toward a more organized digital landscape in Nepal.
