Nepalese authorities are poised to prohibit the social media platform TikTok, citing concerns that its inappropriate use is causing disruptions in social cohesion.

The decision, announced by Communications Minister Rekha Sharma on Monday, emerged from a cabinet gathering. Sharma further explained that TikTok, boasting a user base exceeding a billion per month, is frequently employed to disseminate content that interferes with familial frameworks and social ties.
“The decision to ban was made today, and relevant authorities are currently addressing the technical issues,” she said, without divulging the specifics.
Gagan Thapa, a leader of the Nepali Congress Party, expressed dissent regarding the decision, contending that it equates to suppressing freedom of expression.
Although he acknowledged the prevalent misuse of social platforms, Thapa advocated for a more judicious approach in regulating them.
“Regulation is necessary to discourage those who abuse social media, but shutting down social media in the name of regulation is completely wrong,” he said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

TikTok has come under intense scrutiny in recent months over data privacy and some countries have put measures in place to curb its use.