Nepal Government to Lift TikTok Ban

The Nepalese government is preparing to lift the ban on TikTok, imposed by former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal in November 2023 due to concerns over social harmony and public decency. The current administration, led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, is responding to persistent diplomatic pressure from China and is set to consider a proposal from the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology in an upcoming Cabinet meeting. TikTok has made multiple commitments to adhere to Nepalese laws, prompting discussions among officials about regulatory changes needed to allow the app to operate. Despite the government’s previous hesitations, a recent letter from TikTok’s Singapore office reiterating compliance with local regulations has spurred consultations on lifting the ban. The situation highlights the geopolitical dynamics influencing domestic policy in Nepal, as the ban has broader implications amid US-China tensions. The formal decision to lift the ban is anticipated soon, pending discussions on how to effectively regulate TikTok post-ban.