Chiranjibi Adhikari on Nepal’s Data Privacy: Strengths, Weaknesses
12th April 2025, Kathmandu
In a recent presentation at Sankalpa College, Banepa, Chiranjibi Adhikari, a leading cybersecurity expert and CEO of One Cover Private Limited, shed light on Nepal’s Data Protection and Privacy Legislation. His analysis highlighted the strengths, gaps, and urgent reforms needed to align Nepal’s laws with global standards like the GDPR.
Chiranjibi Adhikari on Nepal’s Data Privacy
Nepal’s Data Protection Framework: Strengths & Weaknesses
1. Constitutional & Legal Safeguards
Article 29 of Nepal’s Constitution (2015) guarantees privacy rights, covering personal, residential, and communication-related data.
The Individual Privacy Act (2075) and Regulation (2077) provide legal support for data protection.
The National Penal Code (2017) criminalizes privacy breaches, including unauthorized surveillance and data leaks.
2. Scope & Limitations
Protected Data: Includes personal data (biometrics, criminal records) and sensitive data (health, financial, political information).
Territorial Reach: Laws apply only to entities operating within Nepal, leaving cross-border data governance unaddressed.
3. Enforcement Challenges
No Dedicated Regulator: Unlike the GDPR, Nepal lacks a Data Protection Authority (DPA). Complaints must go through district courts, slowing enforcement.
4. Critical Gaps in Nepal’s Data Privacy Laws
No Data Subject Rights: Nepalese laws don’t grant rights like data erasure, portability, or breach notifications.
No Mandatory Breach Disclosure: Organizations aren’t required to report data breaches, increasing risks for citizens.
Expert’s Call for Urgent Reforms
Adhikari emphasized that Nepal’s data protection laws lag behind global standards, exposing citizens to privacy threats and hindering digital growth. He recommended:
Establishing a dedicated Data Protection Authority (DPA)
Introducing mandatory breach disclosure laws
Modernizing data subject rights (erasure, portability, access)
Strengthening penalties for violations
“Without urgent reforms, Nepal risks falling behind in the digital economy while exposing citizens to privacy threats,” Adhikari warned.
About Chiranjibi Adhikari – Leading Nepal’s Cybersecurity Movement
Chiranjibi Adhikari, a Bharatpur Metropolitan City (Chitwan) resident, is a renowned cybersecurity expert with over 20 years of experience. As the CEO of One Cover Private Limited, he specializes in:
Cybersecurity & Networking
AI & IT Governance
Information Security Management
Key Leadership Roles:
Vice President, Federation of Computer Association Nepal
Cybersecurity Advisor, Nepal Chamber of Commerce
ICT Expert Member, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (Government of Nepal)
Founder President, Center for Cybersecurity Research and Innovation (CSRI); Immediate Past Presidnet of Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert)
National ICT Excellence Award 2024 Winner
Adhikari has conducted 500+ cybersecurity awareness programs across Nepal, significantly improving the nation’s cyber resilience.
About Sankalpa College – Pioneering IT & Hospitality Education
Located in Banepa-10, Janagal, Kavre, Sankalpa College is a leading institution offering:
Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) – Tribhuvan University’s first BHM program in Kavre & Bhaktapur
Bachelor’s in Information Management (BIM)
The college focuses on practical learning, industry collaborations, and ethical leadership, preparing students for global IT and hospitality challenges.
Nepal’s data protection laws need urgent upgrades to match international standards. Experts like Chiranjibi Adhikari play a crucial role in advocating for stronger cybersecurity policies to safeguard citizens’ privacy in the digital age.
For more updates on Nepal’s cybersecurity landscape: Chiranjibi Adhikari on Nepal’s Data Privacy
