Rights Groups Condemn Telegram Ban in Nepal

Digital Rights Nepal (DRN) and 28 civil society organizations have jointly condemned the Nepal Telecommunications Authority’s directive to block Telegram, calling it a serious violation of constitutional freedoms.

In their statement, titled “Telegram Ban: A Grave Violation of Constitutionally Guaranteed Freedoms”, the civil society argue that the move lacks transparency, legal basis, and undermines Articles 17 and 19 of Nepal’s Constitution, which protect freedom of expression and right to communication.

Stakeholders emphasize that blanket bans harm democratic norms and digital rights, especially when Telegram claimed cooperating with the Nepal government in curbing unlawful content. The rights group call for immediate lifting of the ban, compliance with constitutional and international human rights principles while regulating digital platforms, and inclusive dialogue involving civil society, government bodies, experts, and platform representatives on regulation of digital platforms and digital rights.