Kathmandu, Sept 9 — The Government of Nepal recently blocked 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and X, after they failed to comply with new registration rules. However, TikTok avoided the ban as it had already fulfilled the government’s requirements earlier this year.

Under the new directive, all platforms were required to establish a liaison office in Nepal, appoint a local contact person, and agree to oversight on harmful or misleading content. While most global companies missed the deadline, TikTok completed the registration process and secured clearance to continue its operations.

The move gave TikTok a unique status in the country. As other platforms went offline, the app quickly became the primary channel for communication and mobilization, particularly among Nepal’s younger population. In recent days, TikTok has been used actively to organize protests against the broader social media restrictions, making it a focal point of both public expression and government scrutiny.

Officials said the regulation aimed to increase accountability and curb the spread of misinformation. Critics, however, argue that the selective ban disrupted communication, limited free expression, and gave TikTok disproportionate influence in the digital space.

The contrasting outcomes highlight how compliance with local laws determined the survival of platforms in Nepal’s digital landscape. While TikTok remained operational, other popular apps lost their reach, creating a major shift in the way citizens connect and voice their opinions.