Nepal Government Decides to Ban China's TikTok, Citing Damaging Social Impact
Updated: Jan 5
The Nepal government has announced its decision to ban the popular video-sharing app TikTok, citing concerns over its negative social impact.
The move comes as other countries have also imposed restrictions on TikTok, citing security issues. Nepal has reported over 1,600 cybercrime cases related to TikTok in the past four years, leading to a growing demand for its control.
The decision to ban TikTok was made during a cabinet meeting, according to Nepal's Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma. She stated that the government is working on closing the app technically and internet service providers have been instructed to take action.
TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has faced criticism and bans in several countries. The app has been accused of spreading inappropriate and harmful content, as well as compromising national security. However, TikTok has defended itself, calling the bans "misguided" and based on "misconceptions."
Opposition leaders in Nepal have criticised the ban, arguing that instead of restricting social media platforms, they should be regulated to address the issue of unwanted content. Pradeep Gyawali, a senior leader of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), stated that there are similar issues on other social media platforms that need to be addressed as well.
Nepal's decision to ban TikTok follows similar actions taken by neighboring countries. India banned TikTok and other Chinese apps in 2020, citing concerns about national security. Pakistan has also banned TikTok multiple times due to its "immoral and indecent" content.
TikTok has not yet responded to the ban imposed by Nepal. The company has previously emphasised its commitment to user safety and content moderation.
Nepal has decided to ban TikTok due to its damaging social impact.
Over 1,600 TikTok-related cybercrime cases have been registered in Nepal.
The government is working on closing the app technically.
Opposition leaders argue for regulation rather than restriction of social media platforms.
Source: REUTERS