Government lifts ban on TikTok; activation delayed

Kathmandu, August 22 - The government has decided to lift the ban on the social media platform TikTok.

A minister announced that the cabinet meeting held on Thursday made the decision to remove the restriction.

Although the government has decided to lift the ban on TikTok, it will take some time before the platform is fully accessible.

The previous government led by Prachanda imposed a ban on TikTok due to concerns about its impact on social harmony.

Government Spokesperson and Minister of Communication and Information Technology Prithivi Subba Gurung said that TikTok will be reopened under four conditions, including support for tourism promotion.

According to Section 3 of the 'Directives on the Operation of Social Networking, 2023, TikTok must register with the ministry and provide a contact point.

The conditions also include contributing to digital security and literacy, supporting public education, and implementing language filtering in content creation.

Gurung stated that the ban will be lifted once TikTok meets these conditions and agrees to take measures against social disharmony and abusive language.

He also emphasized that other social networks must similarly provide contact information and comply with government requirements for tourism promotion and digital security before they can operate.

The ban on TikTok was initially imposed on November 13, 2023.