Government Passed ‘Social Media Operation Directive 2080’
The Cabinet have passed the ”Social Media Operation Directive 2080’ on November 9, 2023. The directives mandate that prominent social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube to establish local offices within Nepal. This decision is driven by the need to tackle mounting concerns related to content moderation and platform engagement. It is a response to the challenges faced by users in Nepal when trying to address their concerns and have objectionable content removed. This is primarily due to the absence of company representatives within the country.
The implementation of these directives, subject to further decisions by the cabinet, encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities and regulations. It centers on defining the roles and obligations of Social Networking Platform Operators, outlining the Ministry’s responsibilities, classifying and addressing grievances related to social media platforms. Additionally, the directives outline a set of actions prohibited for users on these platforms.
This comprehensive set of directives includes a 19-point list that specifies what users must refrain from doing on social media platforms. These restrictions include prohibiting the creation or use of fake identities for content posting, prohibition of content that promotes hatred against any group based on gender, community, caste, religion, or profession, and prevention of content that endorses or promotes unlawful activities, such as child labor, human trafficking, child marriage, or polygamy.
The directives emphasize the prohibition of hate speech, disrespectful behavior, or defamation through any media format, including text, audio, video, or images. Activities such as distorting private images without consent, sharing vulgar or explicit content, promoting sexual exploitation, prostitution, narcotics, cyberbullying, and content related to terrorism are strictly prohibited.
While the full text remains undisclosed to the public, the directives will be reviewed by the DRN once they are made public.
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NTA Implements MDMS in Nepal
The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) has finally implemented the Mobile Device Management System (MDMS), almost 14 months after its initial announcement. Although the system was initially launched in September 2022 to regulate unauthorized mobile phones, its implementation faced several delays.
Starting from November 6th, the NTA deactivated hundreds of unregistered iPhone 15 sets in the country, enforcing compliance with the newly implemented MDMS. This initial phase focused on SIM cards associated with the most expensive phones, resulting in the deactivation of 804 iPhones.
TERAMOCS Controversies Continues
The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) faces scrutiny as revelations indicate that the implementation of the Telecom Companies’ Call Traffic Monitoring Mechanism (TERAMOCS) system may compromise citizens’ privacy. Despite public assurances that the system would not violate privacy rights, a confidential letter from NTA to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology suggests an intention to access citizens’ call details and message content. This contradicts previous claims by NTA officials. The TERAMOCS system, initially introduced to combat call bypass and revenue evasion, encountered opposition from telecom service providers who were reluctant to grant access to switching stations.
On the other hand, The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) is set to conclude an investigation revealing corruption of approximately Rs 3 billion in the NTA purchase of the TERAMOCS. The investigation targets two former ministers, two secretaries, and high-ranking officials for legal action in connection with the alleged corruption. A credible source within the CIAA disclosed that legal action is imminent against the then former minister for Communications and present Minister for Health and Population, Mohan Bahadur Basnet, and the present Minister for Communications, Gyanendra Bahadur Karki.
Government to Scrutinizes TikTok Misuse
The Ministry of Home Affairs in Nepal published a notice on November 5, highlighting recent discussions between government representatives and TikTok executives, focusing on curbing misuse of the platform. This effort aims to eliminate disruptive content, prevent dishonorable behavior, and encourage responsible conduct on social media. Amid debates regarding potential religious tensions, there’s a growing push for TikTok’s potential ban, although not widely supported. The government’s increased scrutiny aligns with broader plans to regulate social media platforms.
Government Activates ETC for Swift Response to Earthquake Crisis
In response to the recent earthquake, the government has swiftly activated the Emergency Telecommunication Cluster (ETC) under the Ministry of Communication, information and Technology (MoICT). The ETC’s primary role is to manage information and communication systems in affected areas, ensuring a well-coordinated and efficient response to the crisis. A meeting led by Minister Rekha Sharma brought together key officials and representatives from the telecommunication and mass media sectors, focusing on the rapid restoration of telephone and internet services in affected regions. Service providers are urged to appoint dedicated contacts for immediate action and continuous communication with the ETC.
TELCOs Extend Aid Packages for Earthquake Victims
Major TELCOs in Nepal have extended their hands to support the immediate rescue, treatment, and relief efforts for victims of the recent earthquake in Nepal. Ncell Axiata Limited has pledged financial assistance of Rs 5 million and offered free services, valued at Rs 4 million, to customers in the earthquake-affected districts of Jajarkot, Rukum (West), and Rukum (East). These complimentary services encompass calls to both domestic and international networks, data usage, and SMS, with a validity period of 15 days. Similarly, Nepal Telecom (NTC) has also announced a relief initiative to aid individuals in earthquake-affected areas such as Jajarkot, Rukum East, and Rukum West. The state-backed communication giant will provide free voice and SMS services, effective for 5 days, to residents in these regions. Additionally, NTC is offering free SIM cards, accompanied by complimentary voice and SMS services, over the next five days.
Nepal Police Warns Against Online Scams Exploiting Earthquake Relief
The Nepal Police has issued a cautionary notice, urging vigilance among the public against potential scammers exploiting the internet or other channels to deceive individuals in the guise of aiding earthquake victims. They have advised citizens to verify the authenticity of individuals or organizations seeking help before providing any form of assistance. The police emphasized the importance of ensuring the legitimacy of requests for financial or other support for earthquake victims, specifically through online platforms or alternate means.
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DRN family wishes you all a happy and prosperous Dipawali, Nepal Sambat 1144, Mah Puja, and Chhath. May these festivities bring prosperity and joy into your life.
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Digital Rights Weekly is a week-based update on Digital Rights and ICT issues, that happened throughout the week, compiled and analyzed from the digital rights perspective by Digital Rights Nepal (DRN). DRN is a not-for-profit initiative dedicated to the protection and promotion of digital rights, including the right to online freedom of expression and association, online privacy, access to information, and related issues such as internet governance, cyber laws/policies, and cyber securities in Nepal.
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