Nepal Government’s Controversial Decision: Hamro Patro Listed as Social Media, Ban Possible
4th September 2025, Kathmandu
In a surprising and controversial decision, the Government of Nepal has reportedly listed Hamro Patro, Nepal’s most popular calendar and multipurpose app, under the category of social media platforms.
Nepal Government’s Controversial Decision
This unexpected move has sparked outrage and confusion among users, industry experts, and the Nepali diaspora worldwide.
Hamro Patro: More Than Just a Calendar and Technology Platform
Hamro Patro is widely known as Nepal’s go-to calendar app, providing Nepali dates, festivals, and news updates. Over the years, it has expanded its services to include astrology, FM radio, remittance, telemedicine, and even news aggregation. However, it has never been considered a social media network like Facebook, TikTok, or Twitter.
Why Is It Listed as Social Media?
According to sources, the government has added Hamro Patro to the social media regulatory list, claiming it enables content distribution and user interaction through its news and radio sections. Officials argue that since it allows users to access, share, and comment on news content, it falls under the social networking category.
Critics, however, say this classification is misleading and politically motivated, raising concerns that the government is attempting to control one of Nepal’s most widely used apps.
Fear of a Possible Ban
This categorization has fueled speculation that Hamro Patro may soon face strict restrictions or even closure under the government’s proposed Social Media Regulation Policy. The possible ban has alarmed millions of Nepalis at home and abroad who rely on the app for daily updates and connectivity with Nepali culture.
Public Backlash
Social media users, IT experts, and digital rights activists are voicing strong criticism:
“Hamro Patro is a calendar, not TikTok. Calling it social media is a blunder,” wrote one digital analyst on Twitter.
Many fear this move is part of a larger crackdown on digital platforms in Nepal, especially ahead of new regulations targeting online content.
Industry Experts React
ICT experts warn that misclassifying digital platforms could damage Nepal’s startup ecosystem and discourage innovation. “If an app like Hamro Patro is labeled social media, then tomorrow even fintech and e-learning apps may face the same fate,” one tech entrepreneur stated.
The Bigger Picture
The Nepali government’s latest move comes at a time when it is already under fire for its proposed social media licensing rules. By grouping Hamro Patro with global social media giants, the decision has further intensified debates over freedom of information, digital rights, and government overreach.
Conclusion
Whether intentional or a bureaucratic oversight, the government’s step to classify Hamro Patro as social media has created a political storm.
With talks of a potential ban looming, the controversy highlights the clash between governance and digital freedom in Nepal’s rapidly growing tech landscape.
