Lifting Of TikTok Ban

Pallav Bhusal

Nepal government's recent decision to lift the ban on TikTok has been met with a mix of enthusiasm and concern. The app, which has become a global phenomenon, particularly among younger demographics, was temporarily banned in Nepal due to concerns over its content and the societal impact it was having. Now that the ban has been lifted, the conversation around TikTok in Nepal has shifted from one of censorship to one of responsibility. While there are undeniable benefits to allowing the platform back into the digital lives of Nepalis, the potential drawbacks cannot be ignored.

TikTok’s appeal lies in its accessibility and the ease with which users can create, share, and consume content. It has democratised entertainment sector and spurred creativity, allowing anyone with a smartphone to reach a global audience. For many Nepali youth, TikTok has provided a platform to express themselves, showcase their talents, and even generate income. The app has also served as a powerful tool for raising awareness of various social issues, from mental health to environmental conservation, offering a voice to those who might otherwise go unheard.

However, TikTok’s strengths are also its weaknesses. The same platform that amplifies voices can also spread misinformation, promote harmful content, and contribute to a culture of instant gratification. In Nepal, concerns were raised about the app’s role in encouraging inappropriate behaviour, cyberbullying, and the spread of false information. The temporary ban was a response to these concerns, reflecting the government’s apprehension about the app’s influence on society, particularly on impressionable young minds.

While the ban was in place, it provided a moment of reflection on the impact of social media on our daily lives. The absence of TikTok highlighted how deeply integrated the platform had become in the society, and it forced many to reconsider their digital habits. For some, it was a wake-up call to the dangers of unchecked content consumption, while for others, it was a frustrating reminder of the limits placed on freedom of expression.

Now that the ban has been lifted, the focus must shift to finding a balance between allowing creative freedom and ensuring responsible content creation and consumption. The lifting of the ban should not be seen as an endorsement of everything TikTok represents but rather as an opportunity to address the issues that led to the ban in the first place.

One potential solution lies in digital literacy. Educating users, especially younger ones, about the responsible use of social media could help mitigate some of the negative impacts of platforms like TikTok. Schools and community organisations could play a crucial role in this, teaching individuals how to discern credible information, respect others online, and understand the long-term effects of their digital footprint. TikTok must take responsibility for the content it allows on its site, enforcing stricter guidelines and providing better tools for users to report harmful content. While the company has made some efforts in this direction, more can be done to ensure that the platform remains a safe and positive space for all users.

The lifting of the ban presents a unique opportunity to rethink how we engage with social media. It is a reminder that while digital platforms can offer incredible opportunities for creativity and connection, they also come with significant responsibilities. As TikTok returns to the screens of millions of Nepali, it is crucial that both users and the platform itself navigate this digital landscape with care, ensuring that the benefits of social media are not overshadowed by its potential harms.