Nepal Introduces Stringent Social Media Bill to Combat Fake News, Deepfakes, and Cybercrime
Kathmandu, Nepal – The Nepali government has introduced a comprehensive social media bill aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation, deepfakes, and various forms of cybercrime. The proposed legislation, currently under review in the National Assembly, outlines a range of penalties for individuals and organizations found in violation of its provisions. The bill’s primary focus is on tackling the proliferation of fake news and the misuse of social media platforms for malicious activities.
The bill introduces strict measures against individuals who create or utilize anonymous or fake profiles to disseminate false information. Offenders could face up to three months in prison, a fine of up to 50,000 Nepali rupees, or both. More severe penalties are reserved for those who spread disinformation that threatens national sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national interests. In such cases, individuals could face imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to 1.5 million Nepali rupees. The bill further stipulates harsher penalties for public officials and those receiving state benefits, who would be subject to 50% higher fines and prison sentences. Involving children or minors in such activities would result in an additional one-year prison term.
The proposed law also addresses the dissemination of obscene content and deepfakes. Posting or sharing obscene images, audio, or videos could result in three months of imprisonment, a fine of up to 50,000 Nepali rupees, or both. Similarly, spreading obscene or misleading information, or making defamatory comments, could carry a penalty of up to two years in prison and a fine of up to 300,000 Nepali rupees. The creation and distribution of deepfakes, defined as content generated using artificial intelligence to manipulate a person’s likeness or voice for malicious purposes, could also lead to a two-year prison sentence and a fine of up to 300,000 Nepali rupees.
The legislation further extends its reach to regulate social media platforms themselves. Companies seeking to operate in Nepal would be required to obtain government approval. Failure to comply could result in penalties ranging from 2.5 million to 10 million Nepali rupees. Approved platforms are prohibited from facilitating activities that promote anti-national sentiments, defame individuals, violate privacy, or allow users to conceal their identities. Users who violate these provisions could face fines of up to 500,000 Nepali rupees.
The bill specifically prohibits hate speech, defined as content that incites violence or hatred against individuals or groups, and the spreading of false or misleading information. Those found guilty could be fined up to 500,000 Nepali rupees. Cyberstalking, which encompasses actions such as making false accusations, online surveillance, and privacy violations, could result in a three-year prison sentence, a fine of 500,000 Nepali rupees, or both.
Additional provisions address various forms of cybercrime, including hacking social media accounts, phishing scams, and sextortion. Each of these offenses carries a potential penalty of up to three years in prison and a fine of up to 1.5 million Nepali rupees. The bill also outlines a process for victims to seek compensation for damages caused by these offenses, with a three-month window for filing claims.
This comprehensive social media bill reflects the Nepali government’s effort to establish a robust legal framework to regulate online activity, protect citizens from harmful content, and combat the growing threat of cybercrime in the digital age. The bill’s stringent provisions are intended to deter malicious activities and promote responsible social media usage. However, concerns regarding potential impacts on freedom of speech and expression warrant careful consideration during the legislative process. The proposed legislation sets a precedent for regulating the rapidly evolving online landscape and its potential implications for individual rights and freedoms.