Mis/disinformation Control and Free Speech in Nepal: Rising Concerns Over Expanding Regulatory Responses in Digital Space
Recent statements and regulatory signals from the Government of Nepal reflect a growing institutional push to address misinformation and disinformation in digital spaces. On April 22, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology issued a statement that individuals or organizations spreading “baseless”, “false” or “misleading” information online could face legal action under existing laws, citing concerns over public confusion, social tension, and disruption of social harmony.
Parallel concerns have also been raised by Press Council highlighting declining adherence to journalistic standards, including circulation of unverified content, one-sided reporting, and the use of social media for making unsubstantiated allegations. Although promoting ethical journalism is important, the increasing emphasis on punitive action signals a more enforcement-driven regulatory approach.
Similar patterns emerge from Home Ministry statements warning against acts such as “inciting public unrest” or using “abusive language,” while also referencing monitoring of online activity. These broad and subjective categories create uncertainty around the limits of lawful expression and may contribute to a chilling effect, encouraging self-censorship among journalists, activists, and the public.
On 24 April, the Nepal Army issued a notice expressing serious concern over the circulation of false information about the Nepal Army and its leadership across media and social platforms. It warned that such misleading content creates public confusion and urged people not to share it, adding that those involved may face legal action as authorities continue to monitor such activities.
While countering misinformation is a legitimate policy goal, the use of broad and undefined terms raises concerns about legal ambiguity and potential overreach. Without clear thresholds and safeguards, such provisions risk being applied beyond genuinely harmful content to include legitimate expression, criticism, or investigative reporting.
These developments come amid wider concerns from civil society including FNJ and political actors about shrinking civic space, rising cyber-related pressures, and growing hesitation around free expression. They reflect an ongoing tension between two competing priorities: addressing harmful misinformation and safeguarding constitutional freedoms.
DRN emphasizes that a balanced approach should prioritize precise legal definitions, due process, and proportional enforcement, alongside long-term investments in digital literacy, independent fact-checking, and inclusive, multi-stakeholder governance. Without such safeguards, efforts to protect information integrity risk undermining press freedom and democratic discourse in Nepal’s evolving digital landscape.
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Draft ‘National Commitment’ Unveiled with Strong Push for AI, Digital Economy, and Public Sector Reform
The Government of Nepal has released the draft “National Commitment,” outlining an ambitious roadmap for national development and structural reforms based on the manifestos and commitments of six major political parties. The draft, published by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, places strong emphasis on the use of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and innovation-driven economic transformation.
Under this national commitment the government plans to use AI to strengthen disaster warning systems and reduce the impact of natural disasters, while also aiming to develop Nepal into a tech hub within five years by investing in data centers, AI, and digital services and helping Nepali IT companies compete globally. To attract international tech firms, it proposes incentives like tax benefits and more opportunities for local IT companies in government projects. In agriculture, new measures such as farmer ID cards, credit access, insurance, and pension schemes aim to better target support, while cooperatives will be fully digitized with improved systems and online marketplaces. These initiatives are part of a broader reform agenda to be implemented through the upcoming national budget.
Lack of Platform Registration Hindering Cybercrime Investigations: Police Chief
Nepal Police IGP Dan Bahadur Karki has warned of a sharp rise in cybercrime in Nepal, with increasing cases of cyberbullying alongside growing internet use. Speaking at the National Assembly committee, he noted the delays in obtaining user data from platforms and limited cooperation from services like WhatsApp, Discord, and YouTube continue to challenge enforcement efforts. Karki cited challenges such as limited manpower, weak infrastructure, outdated laws like the Electronic Transactions Act 2008, and lack of platform cooperation. He called for legal reforms, including a Social Media Bill, and increased public awareness on safe digital practices.
OPMCM Opens Hotline and Online Portal for Complaints
The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers (OPMCM) has enabled citizens to file complaints via phone and online regarding files not cleared during the ‘Zero Pending Files Week’ campaign. Complaints can be submitted through the Hello Sarkar toll-free number 1111 or the official online portal. The initiative follows the campaign held from 13 April to 20 April 2026, aiming to ensure accountability for unresolved government files across all levels.
OCR Launched AI Call Center
The Office of the Company Registrar has introduced an AI-based call center to provide 24/7 information on its services and procedures. Users can access details on company registration, required documents, post-registration processes, and staff contacts by calling 9700004414. The office stated that the system will be continuously improved to deliver more accurate and updated information to service users.
Nepal Among Top 10 for Affordable Broadband
Nepal has ranked 9th globally for affordable broadband, according to a report by Broadband Genie comparing prices across 214 countries. Countries like Iran, Ukraine, and Bangladesh lead the list with the lowest average costs, driven by subsidies, competition, and low operating expenses. In contrast, regions such as Wallis and Futuna and Turkmenistan have the most expensive broadband due to remoteness, limited competition, and high infrastructure costs.
Govt Introduces Accessible Web Features for Inclusive Digital Services
The Department of Information Technology has rolled out new web accessibility features under the Government Integrated Website Management System to make government websites more inclusive and user-friendly. According to the department, the update enables full keyboard navigation, “skip navigation” options, screen reader compatibility, and improved form accessibility with clear labels and audio-friendly error messages. This initiative aims to support users with disabilities and enhance equal access to digital government services.
46 Nepalis Rescued from Online Scam Centers in Cambodia
The Nepali Embassy in Bangkok has rescued 46 Nepalis who were trafficked to Cambodia and forced into illegal online scam centers, casinos, and other unlawful activities without valid visas. The embassy, with support from the Cambodian government and Non-Resident Nepali Association Cambodia, repatriated them on 30 Chaitra and 1 Baisakh. Authorities warned that Nepalis are increasingly being lured with false job promises into high-risk scam operations abroad. Cambodia has also introduced strict anti-scam laws with severe penalties, including long prison terms and heavy fines. The embassy urged citizens to avoid visit-visa jobs and seek proper labor approval before working abroad.
YouTuber Roshan Pokharel Arrested Over Alleged Defamatory Content
YouTuber Roshan Pokharel was arrested on 9 April in Panchthar following a Cyber Bureau investigation over alleged abusive and defamatory content targeting political figures, including Balendra Shah, through his YouTube channel “Hades.” He was remanded to 10 days in custody by a local court, triggering criticism from Gen Z activists who called it an attempt to suppress free expression. He was later released following public backlash and protests on 12 April 2026.
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Digital Adhikar: Strengthening Youth Understanding of Digital Rights and Safety
On 16 April, Digital Rights Nepal, in collaboration with the Free Student Union of University Campus, Tribhuvan University, successfully conducted an interactive session titled “Digital Adhikar: Know Your Rights, Protect Your Future.” The session introduced key concepts of digital rights, including their scope and relevance in today’s digital space. Participants also engaged in discussions on major legal provisions related to online content, information integrity (misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation), OGBV/TFGBV, and digital safety practices. Around 100 students actively participated, making the session highly interactive and engaging, reflecting growing youth interest in understanding and protecting their digital rights.
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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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