When dissent invites digital lynching. Is Nepali social media growing hostile to differing views
Summary
Rising incidents of digital harassment and threats on Nepali social media are creating a chilling effect on freedom of expression, as dissenting voices face organized trolling and abuse, particularly targeting women and political critics.
Key Points
- The arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli sparked online political tensions, leading to digital harassment of dissenting voices like Amisa Parajuli.
- There has been a significant increase in social media-related harassment and bullying cases in Nepal over the past five years, raising concerns about freedom of expression.
- Organized troll armies and algorithm-driven echo chambers intensify digital lynching, causing many to self-censor or stop expressing their opinions publicly.
- Nepal lacks a strong legal framework to effectively counteract organized digital attacks and trolling, despite existing provisions under the Electronic Transactions Act.
