Government Considers Restricting Snapchat, Tinder, Telegram for Social Media Regulation

In the wake of the recent TikTok ban, the Nepali government is now intensifying its efforts to prohibit several other popular social media platforms, citing concerns about negative content and misinformation. Among the platforms targeted are Bigo Live, Likey, Tinder, Snapchat, and Telegram.

The move signals a broader crackdown on applications facilitating live content sharing, similar to TikTok, which was banned earlier this month. Prakash Rayamajhi, the IT expert for the Prime Minister, has labeled these apps as “anti-social media” rather than social media, expressing worries about their impact on society.

In an interview with BBC Nepali Service, Rayamajhi stated, “They have done nothing but spread negative content and misinformation.” He revealed that a team of experts has been assembled by the Prime Minister’s Office to closely monitor these applications.

However, the government’s decision is facing legal challenges, with 14 writs filed against the ban awaiting a hearing. Critics argue that such measures infringe on freedom of expression and individual rights.

Bigo Live and Likey, both products of Singapore-based Bigo Technologies, are operated by Chinese companies, adding an international dimension to the ban. Alongside them, the Russian messaging app Telegram and popular American products Tinder (a dating app) and Snapchat (a messaging app) are also on the government’s radar.

A preliminary study conducted by the Prime Minister’s Office indicated that these applications are predominantly used for uploading and sharing explicit content, negatively affecting many Nepali citizens. The monitoring team is expected to submit a comprehensive report soon, recommending sanctions based on their findings.

As the legal battle unfolds and the government’s scrutiny widens, the ban on these social media platforms could have significant implications for the digital landscape and freedom of expression in Nepal.