Proposal to review Social Media Bill unanimously approved

KATHMANDU: The National Assembly has unanimously approved a proposal to review the Social Media Bill, 2081.

During today’s session, Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung presented the proposal and responded to members’ questions, assuring that ambiguous words or sentences in the bill would be amended if identified.

Minister Gurung highlighted that cybercrime is emerging as a global challenge and stressed the need to address it. With the proliferation of online media, he said, the Media Council Bill has been introduced to regulate it, while also promoting religious harmony.

He emphasized that as this is a new type of legislation, it must be developed thoughtfully to ensure effective regulation rather than excessive control.

Several National Assembly members echoed this view, emphasizing regulation over restriction. Member Anjan Shakya cited international examples of social media regulation, expressing confidence that the bill would help curb growing abuses in Nepal.

Member Ghanshyam Rizal cautioned that certain provisions are control-focused rather than regulation-focused, which could infringe on constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression. Similarly, Suresh Kumar Alemagar noted that while regulation is necessary, attempts to control would be unacceptable.

Member Kiran Babu Shrestha called for amendments to remove provisions that could violate freedom of expression. Member Dr. Veduram Bhusal lamented that the bill, rather than addressing its intended purposes, had become overly control-oriented. Member Taraman Swar highlighted conflicts with other laws that need correction, and Gopal Bhattarai stressed revising provisions that could affect freedom of expression.

Member Krishna Prasad Adhikari pointed out the bill’s dual focus on protecting users’ rights versus giving the state excessive control, urging amendments to clarify its purpose. Members Sumitra Visi, Vishnubahadur Bishwakarma, and others reinforced the need to regulate, not control, social media.

National Assembly Chair Narayan Dahal informed members that those wishing to propose amendments could submit them through the bill branch. The next session of the National Assembly is scheduled for Bhadra 6 at 12:15 PM.