"Nepal has imposed a ban on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and more than a dozen other big social media sites after accusing them of failing to comply with regulations. The ban, which came into effect on Thursday midnight, drew criticism from human rights and press freedom groups, with Nepal's government, led by prime minister KP Sharma Oli, accused of impeding freedom of speech and causing harm to businesses."
"A notice from the ministry said that subsequently an order had been issued to deactivate the platforms. Only five companies, including TikTok, complied with the order and were not restricted. The almost blanket ban caused chaos over the weekend, hitting businesses and Nepal's vital tourism industry, which relies heavily on social media to promote, reach and communicate with customers both domestically and abroad."
Nepal imposed a ban on 26 major social media and messaging platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, Reddit, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Signal, after they failed to register under new social media laws. The ministry of communications and information technology gave the companies seven days following a court order; most missed the deadline and an order was issued to deactivate the platforms. Only five companies, including TikTok, complied and remained accessible. The broad deactivation disrupted businesses, Nepal's tourism industry, and family communications with relatives abroad. Journalists protested in Kathmandu, and press freedom groups warned the ban threatens freedom of expression.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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