Efforts are being made to address the issue of social media in Nepal, and the government has registered a Bill to regulate digital platforms. The aim of this legislation is to the more strict monitoring of social media platforms and the control of misuse that may damage national interests or public safety. It was announced by the Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung that the Bill was submitted to the National Assembly. This Bill is part of broader reforms in digital governance to improve information and communication technology for conducting daily tasks of individuals and firms and as a result, major changes are expected in public services also.
This proposal includes some detailed requirements for the social media platforms that function within the country and includes a mandatory regulation for them to get government permission before they start. This is a step forward in ensuring that accountability is established among digital service providers and that national laws are respected. Key regulations also include means to fine people or organizations and punish them if they are not in compliance with its terms.
One of the would-be functions of this Bill is recommending extortionate fines for social media platforms that have no licenses for their operations. The penalties for individuals can go up to Rs 2.5 million, or they can be imprisoned for acts defined in their activity which might impinge on the country’s interests. Also, those who are the source of inaccurate or false information will have to pay high fines or even be incarcerated once the new law is in force.
The government is taking measures to combat the spread of misinformation and harmful content, which is being transmitted to social media platforms in Nepal. They feel that by making the standards stricter, they shall reduce the chances of those who want to use online platforms in an abusive way while promoting the idea of a responsible user. However, some of them fear that the state might exercise excessive power and stifle free speech through this law.
Advocates for regulations argue that governmental control is a necessary tool to fight online harassment, hate speech, and disinformation, which are consequential to society. They maintain that proper governance may construct a much healthier atmosphere online that will empower citizens to carry out constructive conversations. Still, the objectors are of the opinion that very strict enactment can curb the liberties to free speech and will thereby create the opportunity for the public to be silent.
At present, interested parties from various sectors are said to be in this heated debate regarding its impact on people’s rights to speech and the digital freedom we have in Nepal. The authorities, at the same time, have reassured their people that they are going to weigh the importance of regulation vis-a-vis human rights while always making sure to consider the national interests.
This legislation’s proposal also marks the tendency of the worldwide community to monitor social media networks as those come through with most recent struggling releases, causing significant public concerns and policy examination. As societal responses to similar issues allow for a showdown, Nepal’s stance will greatly interest others in assessing and developing a way forward within this intricate space.
