RSP strongly protests govt’s ban on unregistered social media platforms

KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has strongly objected to the government’s decision to shut down social media platforms that are not registered in Nepal, calling the move a direct assault on fundamental rights and freedoms.

In a press statement issued by Sumana Shrestha, head of the party’s Central Department of Science, Communication, and Information Technology, the RSP stated that the decision gravely undermines freedom of expression, the right to communication, and the free flow of information.

“Social media in today’s digital era is not merely a tool for entertainment or personal use,” the statement reads. “It has become a critical medium for exercising fundamental rights, including freedom of thought and expression, as well as for conducting business, education, research, and information exchange. A blanket ban is a blatant attack on these civil liberties.”

The party cited Articles 17 and 19 of the Constitution of Nepal, accusing the government of attempting to suppress freedom of thought, expression, and communication rights enshrined in the nation’s supreme law.

“In a democracy, challenges are addressed through regulation, transparency, and due legal processes — not by silencing entire platforms,” the statement added.

Reaffirming its commitment to digital freedom, responsible communication, and the protection of civil liberties, the RSP has warned of strong resistance if the decision is not reversed.

The party has put forward the following three-point demand to the government:

• Immediate withdrawal of the decision to ban social media platforms.
• Implementation of policy-based, technical, and legal mechanisms to prevent misuse of social media.
• A clear commitment from the government that no future steps will be taken to curtail citizens’ rights.