Editorial 2: Graft and gag: Why social media ban triggered Nepal's GenZ
Context:
Recent protests in Nepal were triggered by the government’s social media ban. Police lathi charge has resulted in the death of 19 persons and the capital “Kathmandu” has been put under curfew. While the ban on social media was a trigger, the unrest was caused by simmering discontent due to factors such as corruption.
Ban on social media:
- Following the Supreme Court order, Government sought to regulate social media companies. The government order gave deadlines for the companies to resister with the authorities, designate the grievance readressal officer, and agree to remove posts flagged by the government. This order was designed to tackle the menace of cyber crimes, fake news, and misleading content.
- Major social media giants such as Google, Face book, Instagram and YouTube failed to register by the deadline. So, they were banned.
- Platforms such as TikTok, Nimbuzz have registered with the government.
- Government cited the reason that the platforms which not comply with the law of the land, should be banned. The banned social media platforms may resume their operations as soon as they comply with the orders.
- The activists have criticized the government of state surveillance, censoring criticism and curb press freedom.
- Tourism is the major economic activity in land-locked Nepal. Many businesses rely on social media. The social media ban will reduce the tourism business. Also, it may impact expats who use social media to stay in touch with their families and country.
Reasons for recent protests:
- Widespread corruption and lack of accountability of politicians are the reasons for the recent protests.
- Younger members o f prominent families were often criticized as “Nepo Babies” for their entrenched privileges and lavish lifestyles.
- The social media ban has increased youth’s frustration and disappointment due to increased political corruption and distressed economic condition.
- The government is drafting a bill to regulate social media by making certain posts offence, mandating social media to delete “objectionable posts” marked by the government and reveal the details of users uploading such posts.
- Fear of new laws imposing further restrictions on social media have also triggered the ban on social media.
Political corruption and lack of accountability:
- After Nepal became republic in 2008, political power lies with the handful of political leaders who form alliances to capture power. These leaders are accused of corruption and extortion charges.
- Protests had broken out in March too, with demands of returning to monarchy system as Republican form of government has bred corruption and anarchy.
- These leaders accused of corruption are granted immunity against investigation as the actions which lead to corruption are designated as the “policy decisions” taken by the cabinet. This shields the leaders of corruption charges in the court.
Way forward:
Government should consult with all the stakeholders including social media platforms, students, to reframe the laws which promote free speech and expression. These laws should also empower government to act against illegal use of social media, fake news. Social media is a reality today. It must be used and regulated judiciously to maximize its benefits and minimize the problems caused by its misuse.