8th September 2025, Kathmandu
Former Prime Minister and CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ posted on social media Sunday evening. In his post, he openly criticized the government’s decision to block social media platforms in Nepal.
Balen reacts Prachanda Post
Prachanda said the move was a mistake and went against people’s rights. He further noted that the protest planned by Gen Z youth in Kathmandu and across the country on Monday was natural and should not be suppressed. He warned the government not to use force against demonstrators.
Balen’s Sharp Response
However, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah (Balen) responded directly in the comments. He reminded Prachanda that when he was the Prime Minister, TikTok had also been banned in Nepal.
Balen wrote:
“Once upon a time, TikTok was also banned. You were the Prime Minister then, and I was already the Mayor. Nothing happened from your side either, Comrade!”
He also expressed disappointment, saying that if he had been given just one day, he could have transformed Kathmandu’s rivers and canals.
“If I had been given just one day, I would have changed Kathmandu’s rivers and drains,” Balen added.
Balen’s Earlier Reaction to Deuba
Mayor Shah had also commented on Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba’s social media post earlier the same day. Deuba had written about attending the establishment day of Nepal Uraw Association and the Karam Puja program in Sunsari.
Balen sarcastically asked Deuba:
“From which VPN is this post, Nepali or foreign?”
Political Context
The social media shutdown decision has triggered strong criticism from the public, opposition leaders, and especially Gen Z youths, who are planning mass demonstrations. While Prachanda has opposed the government’s move, Balen has gone further, holding former prime ministers accountable for similar past actions, including the TikTok ban.
His sharp remarks have fueled ongoing debates over Nepal’s digital freedom, political accountability, and youth-led protests.
Social Media Ban and Its Negative Impact on Startups, Creators, Actors, and Citizens
The government’s decision to block social media platforms has sparked widespread criticism across Nepal. The ban, aimed at enforcing registration requirements, has raised concerns about its negative impact on startups, content creators, actors, and ordinary citizens who rely heavily on digital platforms for work, communication, and creativity.
Startups and Entrepreneurs at Risk
Startups in Nepal have thrived in recent years due to the opportunities offered by social media. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are essential for low-cost marketing, customer engagement, and brand building. For small businesses and e-commerce ventures, digital platforms are their lifeline. The sudden ban has disrupted their reach, leaving many without access to customers. Entrepreneurs fear losing sales, investors, and international exposure, which could slow down Nepal’s growing startup ecosystem.
Content Creators Lose Their Voice
For digital creators, social media is not only a creative outlet but also a source of income. Influencers, YouTubers, and TikTok stars build careers by connecting with audiences.
The shutdown cuts off their livelihood, making it difficult to sustain partnerships with brands and advertisers. Many content creators have expressed frustration, saying their voices are being silenced and years of hard work put at risk overnight.
Actors and the Entertainment Industry
The entertainment sector also depends on social media to promote films, music, and shows. Actors and musicians often rely on platforms to connect with fans and market their projects. Without these tools, reaching audiences becomes costly and inefficient.
This threatens the growth of Nepal’s entertainment industry, which has increasingly turned digital to expand its presence.
Citizens Face Communication Barriers
Ordinary citizens are among the hardest hit. Social media has become a primary medium for staying connected with family, especially for millions of Nepalis working abroad. The ban limits communication, leaving many unable to maintain emotional ties with loved ones.
Beyond personal connections, social media is also a space for learning, information sharing, and civic engagement. Restricting access undermines freedom of expression and the right to be informed.
Conclusion
The social media ban in Nepal has far-reaching consequences beyond politics. It disrupts startups, silences content creators, weakens the entertainment industry, and restricts citizens’ basic rights. Instead of blanket bans, experts argue for balanced regulation that ensures accountability while preserving digital freedom.
For more: Balen reacts Prachanda Post