A ban of the video hosting service. TikTok began in Nepal on November 13, 2023, with the government attributing it to the disruption of social harmony.[1][2] It was lifted in August 2024.[3]
Background
editNepal has over 2.2 million TikTok users. Nepal banned TikTok due to concerns over its content's impact on society.[4] Home Minister Narayan Kaji highlighted worries about harmful content and youth influence. Despite failed attempts to address these concerns with TikTok directly, the government imposed the ban to protect public interests and promote responsible social media use.[5]
Effects of ban
editThe ban on TikTok in Nepal has sparked concerns like hindrances to business promotions, speculation about political motives, discontent among users reliant on the platform, and criticism regarding democratic principles and freedom of expression.[6][7]
Protest against ban
editThe ban on TikTok in Nepal had sparked widespread protests and debates across the country, both offline and on social media platforms.[8] Citizens had taken to the streets to voice their opposition to the ban, highlighting their concerns about freedom of expression and the impact on livelihoods.[9][10] Additionally, a petition challenging the ban was filed in the Supreme Court, although an interim order was not granted.[11]
Lifting of the ban
editIn August 2024, the ban was lifted after TikTok reached an agreement with government authorities to help identify misuse of the app in real-time and catch cybercrimes.[3]
References
edit- ^ "TikTok expresses concern as debate over its ban rages on". kathmandupost.com. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ "Nepal bans TikTok citing disruption to social harmony". 2023-11-14. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ a b "Nepal lifts tiktok ban: Social media platform returns after agreement with authorities". The New Indian Express. 25 August 2024.
- ^ Pande, Srijan. "Analyzing Nepal's Ban on TikTok". My Republica. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ "Tiktok ban". Reuters.
- ^ "Nepal Bans TikTok and Tightens Control Over All Social Media Platforms". TIME. 2023-11-14. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ "Internet traffic grows sharply in Nepal after TikTok ban". kathmandupost.com. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ Goswami, Madhusree (2023-11-15). "Explained: Why Has TikTok Ban in Nepal Sparked a Debate on Freedom of Speech?". TheQuint. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ "TikTok expresses concern as debate over its ban rages on". kathmandupost.com. Retrieved 2024-02-24.
- ^ "Effect of ban on Tiktok,Reuters". Reuters.
- ^ "TikTok ban triggers a wave of petitions at Supreme Court". kathmandupost.com. Retrieved 2024-02-24.