FAKE NEWS AND MISINFORMATION IN NEPALI SOCIAL MEDIA

 

The rise of social media in Nepal has dramatically transformed how people access and share information. Platforms like Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter have become primary sources of news for millions of Nepalis, especially among youth and urban populations. While these platforms have democratized information dissemination and created new spaces for civic engagement, they have also become fertile grounds for the spread of fake news and misinformation. This phenomenon poses a serious threat to Nepal’s fragile democracy, social harmony, and public health, particularly in the context of political polarization, identity-based tensions, and low levels of digital literacy.

Misinformation in Nepali social media is not a standalone issue—it is embedded within the broader structural weaknesses of the media ecosystem. Traditional media institutions in Nepal, often constrained by political affiliations, economic dependencies, and weak regulatory oversight, have struggled to maintain credibility and trust (Thapa, 2021). In this context, social media platforms have emerged as both an alternative and a challenge. While they offer more participatory channels, their algorithms tend to prioritize sensationalism and emotional content over verified facts, making users more vulnerable to viral falsehoods (Parajuli, 2020).

One of the most concerning trends in Nepal is the deliberate dissemination of politically motivated fake news. During elections, for example, fabricated stories targeting rival parties, fake quotes attributed to leaders, and manipulated videos often circulate unchecked. Political actors and their supporters use social media to shape narratives, attack opponents, and influence public opinion. The lack of clear legislation addressing digital misinformation and the absence of an independent oversight body has allowed these practices to thrive (Khadka, 2022). Moreover, social media “influencers” with large followings often spread misinformation—intentionally or not—without accountability.

Misinformation is also deeply tied to issues of identity, nationalism, and communal sentiment. In Nepal’s ethnically diverse society, false stories have sometimes targeted Madhesi, Muslim, or indigenous communities, reinforcing stereotypes and heightening social tensions. For instance, misleading content linking minority groups to crime or religious conversion circulates widely, especially during times of political unrest or crisis (Upreti, 2020). In these cases, misinformation not only misleads—it actively endangers lives by fueling hate speech and inciting violence.

The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed the vulnerability of Nepali society to health-related misinformation. Unverified claims about cures, vaccine conspiracies, and government cover-ups spread rapidly online, sometimes undermining public health measures. Limited health literacy, combined with distrust in official institutions and the lack of proactive communication strategies, enabled such narratives to take root, especially in rural areas (Bhandari & Neupane, 2021).

A key factor fueling the spread of fake news in Nepal is the low level of digital literacy across much of the population. While smartphone and internet penetration have increased, critical thinking and media literacy have not kept pace. Many users are unable to distinguish between credible sources and manipulated content. Compounding this issue is the linguistic gap—most fact-checking initiatives operate in English or urban Nepali dialects, leaving rural and marginalized language communities especially vulnerable (Subedi, 2023).

Addressing fake news in Nepali social media requires a multi-pronged strategy. Media literacy education should be incorporated into school curricula and community outreach programs. Independent and non-partisan fact-checking initiatives must be strengthened and made accessible in multiple local languages. Social media companies, which currently operate with limited accountability in Nepal, should be pressured—either through policy or public advocacy—to remove harmful content and improve algorithmic transparency. At the same time, any legal intervention must balance regulation with the protection of free speech, avoiding the misuse of anti-misinformation laws to suppress dissent or critical journalism.

In conclusion, fake news and misinformation in Nepali social media represent a pressing challenge to the country’s democratic development, social cohesion, and informed citizenry. As digital platforms become more embedded in everyday life, the risks posed by unchecked misinformation will only grow. A sustainable response must come from collaboration between civil society, state institutions, educational actors, and the public itself—one that not only counters false content but builds a culture of critical engagement and digital responsibility.

REFERENCES

Bhandari, R., & Neupane, D. (2021). COVID-19 and the spread of misinformation in Nepal: Challenges and response strategies. Journal of Nepal Health Research Council, 19(2), 316–319. https://doi.org/10.33314/jnhrc.v19i2.3612

Khadka, K. (2022). Social media, fake news, and democracy in Nepal: Legal challenges and policy responses. Nepal Law Review, 14(1), 45–67.

Parajuli, M. (2020). Information disorder and the role of social media in Nepal. Media Adhyayan, 15(1), 23–36.

Subedi, A. (2023). Digital and media literacy in Nepal: Gaps and prospects. Journal of Communication and Development, 5(1), 11–27.

Thapa, S. (2021). Crisis of trust: Nepali media and the rise of disinformation. Studies in Nepali Media, 4(2), 101–118.

Upreti, B. R. (2020). Ethnic tensions and the weaponization of fake news in Nepal. Conflict, Security & Development, 20(5), 603–619. https://doi.org/10.1080/14678802.2020.1801639