initiatives as a pathway to
modernization. This is most apparent in
its cybersecurity measures and the
introduction of a biometric national
identity card for its citizens. The
proposed cybersecurity framework
includes a government-controlled
internet gateway, which would centralize
online traffic under state supervision,
enabling authorities to censor and
surveil content deemed offensive or
inappropriate (Castor, 2023). Meanwhile,
the biometric identification system
seeks to expand digital access to
essential services but has faced
criticism for disproportionately
impacting vulnerable populations and
serious concerns about data privacy and
potential misuse (Opiah, 2024).
These developments highlight a broader
pattern in Nepal’s digital policies, where
state control and surveillance take
precedence over user rights and digital
inclusivity. Furthermore, the limited
presence of civil society in digital rights
advocacy has made it difficult to
establish public accountability
measures or grassroots efforts for
reform.
TABLE 3 - RELEVANT TECH-RELATED POLICIES IN NEPAL
Law
Electronic
Transactions Act,
2008
●
●
●
National Cyber
Security Policy,
2023
●
●
Directives for
●
Managing the Use
of Social
Networks, 2023
●
Description
Sought to ensure security and authorization in electronic
transactions and address cybercrimes like piracy, source code
alteration, confidentiality breaches, and fraud.
Criminalizes vaguely defined acts related to “illegal materials”
and “harmonious relationships.”
Has been misused to detain journalists and rights activists,
and suppress online criticism of the government.
Proposes a government-controlled internet and telecom
gateway, inspired by China’s Great Firewall and Cambodia’s
National Internet Gateway.
Criticized for enabling surveillance and censorship, potentially
fragmenting the internet and restricting free data flow.
Regulates social media use while promoting self-regulation
among users and platforms on manipulated media, obscene
content, unauthorized sharing, and deceptive calls.
Criticized for targeting criticism and social media activities,
while lacking clarity on issues like fake pages and accounts.
14