On Friday, 7th February 2025, Bikalpa—an Alternative, in collaboration with the Biratnagar Citizens’ Campaign, organized a symbolic protest at Traffic Chowk in Biratnagar against the proposed bill on the regulation and use of social media. The event participated by diverse youth, representatives from social organizations, civil society leaders, and members of the Bikalpa Fellowship and YPE members, aimed to draw public attention to the controversial provisions of the government’s proposed legislation. The protest aims to pressure the government and relevant authorities to reconsider and revoke the bill’s contentious clauses, which would negatively impact people’s right to freedom of expression, human rights, and democratic values.
The proposed bill, titled “Bill on the Operation, Use, and Regulation of Social Media,” was registered in the National Assembly by the Minister for Communications and Information Technology. Protesters argued that the bill, if passed, would have far-reaching negative consequences on citizens’ freedom of speech, their right to access information, and the democratic fabric of the nation. The demonstration was a collective effort to voice concerns over what many perceive as an attempt by the government to curtail the people’s right to express themselves freely.
Basanta Adhikari, the coordinator of the Biratnagar Citizens’ Campaign, highlighted the controversial provisions of the proposed bill, stating that they pose a serious threat to citizens’ right to information and freedom of expression. He highlighted the controversial provisions of the bill, emphasizing that they pose a serious threat to citizens’ constitutional rights. Adhikari stated, “A law that allows individuals to be arrested or prosecuted simply for speaking, writing, or even liking or sharing someone else’s post should not be introduced.”
He further elaborated on the need for regulation in light of the increasing misuse of social media and the internet but cautioned against the dangers of vague and arbitrary legislation. “There has been an increase in offenses committed through social media and the internet in recent times, so regulation is necessary. However, a law written in vague language, allowing arbitrary interpretation, and imposing severe punishments and fines will not regulate but rather control social media,” he remarked. Adhikari stressed that the provisions of the bill contradict the fundamental rights guaranteed by Nepal’s constitution in its democratic republic framework. He called for the immediate withdrawal of the bill from parliament, urging the government to reconsider its approach.
Further Saroj Karki, a content creator from the popular YouTube channel “Project Kura,” also voiced his concerns during the protest. Karki criticized the ambiguously drafted bill, arguing that it reflects an impractical approach by the government to control rather than regulate social media platforms. He expressed his apprehension that the bill aims to instill fear among citizens, discouraging them from speaking out against the government. Karki emphasized that such legislation would stifle creativity, dissent, and open dialogue, which are essential for a vibrant democracy. “Instead of regulating social media platforms, the government is taking an impractical approach by trying to control them. This bill aims to instill fear among citizens to prevent them from speaking against the government,” he stated.
The protesters raised objections to several specific provisions in the bill. One of the most contentious clauses requires social media platforms to be registered in Nepal, a move that many believe would create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles and limit the accessibility of global platforms. Another provision mandates that social media companies remove content as dictated by the government, raising concerns about censorship and the suppression of dissenting voices.
Additionally, the bill classifies the uploading or sharing of deep fake videos as a criminal offense, a provision that, while seemingly aimed at curbing misinformation, could be misused to target individuals for harmless or satirical content. Protesters also expressed dissatisfaction with the provision that subjects even minor offenses to criminal prosecution, arguing that such measures are disproportionate and could lead to the harassment of ordinary citizens.
The demonstrators accused the government of introducing the bill with the intent of suppressing dissent and controlling the narrative on social media. They argued that the proposed legislation is not about regulation but about control, and that it undermines the principles of a free and open society. Since the bill’s registration, it has faced widespread opposition both on social media and in parliament. Various social organizations have demanded amendments to the bill, asserting that it should not be passed in its current form. The protest in Biratnagar was part of a broader movement to challenge the government’s approach and advocate for a more balanced and rights-respecting framework for social media regulation.
The demonstration, which took place from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, was a powerful display of civic engagement and solidarity. Participants carried placards and banners with slogans such as “Protect Freedom of Expression,” “No to Censorship,” and “Withdraw the Draconian Bill.” The event also featured speeches by activists, civil society leaders, and youth representatives, all of whom echoed the sentiment that the proposed bill represents a threat to democracy and human rights. The protest was not just a reaction to the bill but also a call to action for citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in defending their rights.
In conclusion, the symbolic protest held in Biratnagar, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of civic engagement and collective action in defending democracy. As the debate over the bill continues, it is imperative for citizens, civil society, and policymakers to work together to ensure that any legislation on social media regulation upholds the principles of freedom, transparency, and accountability.
The campaign activities were also covered by different local media of Biratnagar.
https://techpatro.com/protest-in-biratnagar-against-social-media-bill/
https://udghoshdaily.com/news/415797-250207200734/detail
https://www.facebook.com/1759011022/posts/10213963849087859/?rdid=tdjk5kSCiF9Tt2Ca#
https://mulukikhabar.com/2025/02/66354/
https://hamromat.com/2025/02/07/92650.html/
https://ourbiratnagar.net/2025/02/290708
https://pradeskhabar.com/?p=85728
https://deshsanchar.com/2025/02/07/1009409/
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=890030269721681&rdid=PMYwNuvUGWRnreCF
