4th September 2025, Kathmandu
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (#NTA) has started implementing a government directive to deactivate all unregistered social media platforms in the country.
NTA Begins Deactivating Unregistered
The move follows a Supreme Court order and the Council of Ministers’ decision on August 25, aiming to enforce stricter regulation over digital platforms.
NTA Enforces MoCIT Directive
Acting on the instructions of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT), the NTA has taken charge of gradually shutting down platforms that failed to register in Nepal.
A ministerial-level meeting finalized the decision, confirming that only registered platforms will remain active. Platforms currently undergoing the registration process will also not be affected.
Minister Defends the Move
Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, stated that the decision was taken after repeated attempts to bring platforms into compliance.
“Our aim is not to shut them down permanently. They will be resumed as soon as they get in touch. Those already registered, and those undergoing registration, have not been closed,” he said.
The statement highlights that the deactivation is conditional, and any platform can return to service once registered.
Platforms Registered with NTA
According to MoCIT spokesperson Gajendra Kumar Thakur, several major platforms have already secured registration through NTA, including:
TikTok
Viber
WeTalk
Nimbuzz
Poppo Live
In addition, Telegram and Global Diary are in the process of registering, ensuring uninterrupted service.
Over 25 Platforms Under Review
A recent ministry study revealed that more than 25 social media platforms are actively used in Nepal. However, the government has not disclosed the exact number of platforms that will be deactivated under NTA’s implementation.
The directive is expected to impact smaller and lesser-known apps that have not prioritized compliance with Nepal’s regulatory framework.
NTA’s Crucial Role in Regulation
The NTA serves as the regulatory body for telecommunications and internet service providers in Nepal. With this directive, its role expands further into digital governance, ensuring that all social media companies comply with Nepali law before operating in the country.
Experts say this could mark the beginning of a new regulatory era, where apps must maintain direct accountability with the NTA to serve Nepali users.
Concerns and Reactions
While the government defends the move as a necessary step to maintain digital order, critics warn that it could:
Restrict freedom of expression.
Interrupt online communities.
Create uncertainty for foreign platforms.
However, supporters argue that the NTA-led enforcement will help reduce misuse of social media, strengthen cybersecurity, and make platforms more accountable.
What It Means for Users
Nepali users may soon notice that unregistered apps become inaccessible as NTA enforces the order. The deactivation will continue until all platforms either register or are shut down.
For registered platforms like TikTok and Viber, there will be no disruption in service. For others, continued access will depend on their willingness to engage with the NTA’s registration process.
Conclusion
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has taken a central role in shaping the future of Nepal’s digital landscape. By deactivating unregistered social media platforms, the NTA is not only enforcing compliance but also setting a precedent for how international tech companies must engage with Nepal.
The controversy surrounding this decision reflects a larger debate between government control and digital freedom, with the NTA standing at the heart of Nepal’s internet regulation
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