Nepal Preparing to Introduce Social Media Bill, Fine of Up to 5 Lakh Rupees for Trolling

Kathmandu, January 28 : The government of Nepal is preparing to introduce strict laws to regulate and control social media. This new law is set to be presented in Parliament during the current session. Under this law, trolling on social media could lead to a fine of up to 5 lakh rupees. The cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday, approved the new social media bill for presentation in Parliament.

Information and Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung has listed the bill for presentation in the upper house of Parliament today. He explained that this law is being brought under legal jurisdiction to control social media. He added that it is a comprehensive law, which will curb cybercrimes as well as acts that undermine national unity and integrity.

According to the new law, anyone using social media to send, post, or share harmful or offensive words, sentences, symbols, pictures, photos, sketches, audio, videos, visual content, or messages will be considered guilty. The law also provides for punishment for anyone using social media to intimidate, threaten, shame, insult, or spread rumors.

The government spokesperson stated that the law also includes provisions for legal action against those who post or share content targeting an individual, institution, or religion using AI, deepfake materials, or impersonating voices. The new law holds people accountable for posting, liking, or sharing content that goes against national interests. It also includes penalties for hacking someone's ID, misusing it, engaging in phishing, or scamming.

Additionally, the law mandates that all social media platforms must obtain permission from the Nepal government to operate.

Under the proposed social media law in Nepal, those found guilty could face up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of up to 5 lakh rupees. This includes the harshest penalties for individuals involved in trolling.