Kathmandu – Nepal is witnessing an unusual digital silence after the government imposed a ban on major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The move, aimed at “maintaining social harmony and curbing misinformation,” has sparked a heated debate across the country.

For many young people, the ban feels like a restriction on freedom of expression. University students in Kathmandu voiced their anger, saying that social media was their main platform for raising issues and staying connected with the world. “In today’s time, shutting down social media is like shutting down our voice,” said one student protester.

On the other hand, some citizens support the decision, believing it will reduce the spread of fake news and online harassment. Local shop owners also expressed mixed reactions — while some fear their online business will collapse, others think it will bring people back to face-to-face communication.

Digital experts warn that the sudden ban could harm Nepal’s growing digital economy, especially startups and small businesses that rely on social platforms for marketing.

As the debate continues, Nepal stands divided — with some demanding digital freedom and others welcoming the government’s tough stance. The coming weeks will reveal whether this “digital silence” is temporary or a long-term shift in the country’s online landscape.