Media Monitoring Observation and Analysis for February, 2026

by | Mar 16, 2026 | Access, Amplify, Consent, Economy, Expression, Governance, Information, Movement Building, Privacy & Data, research, Usage, Violence

Media Monitoring on Election 

Following the scheduling of the House of Representatives election for March 5, 2026, our media monitoring for February revealed a number of issues relating to digital rights and digital space. Building on our January findings, which highlighted privacy breaches, misinformation, and Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) against women in politics, February saw a recurrence of these systemic issues. 

In this monthly edition of Media Monitoring on the election, we have included the following key observations noted ahead of the election: 

1.1. Protection of Voters’ Privacy Rights

The issue of voter privacy breaches and the protection of their privacy rights becomes sensitive at the time of the election. In this context, online activities and engagement can cross important boundaries for voters. For example, journalist Tikaram Yatri shared a sample ballot on social media and asked people about their voting choices. Though he said the post was meant for awareness, the Election Commission considered it as prohibited under the Election Code of Conduct. Section 4 (p) of the code states not to do any kind of vote survey before the election results, and it has also restricted violating the privacy rights of voters.  

The National Human Rights Commission has shown concern over growing risks to voter privacy ahead of the House of Representatives’ election. It has been suggested that everyone respect ballot secrecy and human dignity for a free and fair election. Similarly, the District Election Office, Kathmandu, has also objected to social media posts and online content asking people which party they intend to support. It claimed that this pattern violates voters’ privacy and the Election Code of Conduct, 2082. Therefore, it is important to remember that even casual online interactions can unintentionally pressure voters to make a specific choice or compromise ballot secrecy.  In this sensitive period, the authorities, media, social media users, voters, and everyone must protect and respect privacy rights.

1.2. Technology-Facilitated Violence Against Women in Politics

In the present election environment, women candidates are being heavily targeted by online abuse. The attacks are being directed at their personal level and character on social media. The actress and politician Nisha Adhikari, who is a candidate of House of Representatives election, has publicly condemned the abusive and hateful comments directed at her on social media. As she posted on Facebook, the attacks originate from deep misogyny and are intended to silence women in public. She pointed out that vulgar language has nothing to do with political debate, but is a form of intimidation and violence. 

Similar patterns of online abuse are experienced by other women candidates as well.  For example, Binita Kathayat from the Rastriya Swatantra Party in Jumla stated that she has received rape threats on social media. Similarly, our media monitoring last month had also reported on Ranju Darshana, who got negative comments targeted at her clothes and pregnancy. In several constituencies from around the country, women candidates report being judged on their appearance, marital status, and personal lives rather than their agendas. Such kinds of trends are clearly gender-based online violence that reflects patriarchal attitudes and a shrinking safe space for women’s political participation.

1.3. Rise of Misinformation and Disinformation 

The recent digital landscape of Nepal shows a rise in misinformation and disinformation circulating through social media. On social media, there were claims that the US Army had entered Nepal and staged a parade at Tundikhel, which were later proven false. The footage shown was actually from a routine Army Day cultural performance involving friendly nations. Similarly, false reports about content creator Bibek Thapaliya being attacked and hospitalized were circulated, which were also later confirmed to be untrue. In another case, misleading photos and fabricated materials were shared in relation to a road accident at Narayangopal Chowk. Kathmandu Police clarified that the circulated content was not accurate and warned that such misinformation can distort public understanding and interfere with investigations. These patterns of fake and misleading content show how quickly unverified claims can spread and influence public sentiment.

In the month of February, such election-related misinformation was widely observed. The Election Commission filed cases against individuals for spreading false or harmful content online and referred complaints to the Cyber Bureau under the Electronic Transaction Act, 2063. The Commission has also issued a 63-point directive and warned of strict action against hate speech and coordinated fake campaigns. In addition, Press Council Nepal flagged unregistered platforms for sharing defamatory and misleading material targeting political actors. In response, Nepal Police intensified online monitoring and announced the formation of an AI and Advanced Analytics Cell to track disinformation, including AI-manipulated content.

These episodes and developments show that misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake content are rising ahead of the elections. In this regard, digital rights groups warn that manipulated content can distort voter choice and weaken public trust. In the period of transition, misinformation is not only rumours but they include coordinated narratives and digital manipulation to influence the election. Although authorities have increased monitoring and legal action, Nepal needs a stronger digital critical literacy, responsible online behaviour, and better coordination among law enforcement, media, and regulators to protect democratic processes.

1.4. Digital Campaigning and Platform Accountability

As political campaigning has shifted online, social media platforms are playing a major role in shaping election narratives. Political parties are increasingly relying on boosted posts, reels, and algorithm-driven visibility rather than traditional door-to-door visits and mass rallies. Media analysis shows that emotional and AI-generated political content often gains wider reach than substantive policy debate. This shifting trend has raised concerns about algorithmic influence and uneven visibility. TikTok has also launched an in-app “Election Center” in partnership with the Election Commission. It has committed to labelling AI-generated content and directing users to verified information.

At the same time, different parties have promoted ambitious digital governance agendas, ranging from online public services and diaspora voting to IT investment and tech-driven growth. As digital tools become central to both campaigning and policy promises, the integrity of the online information space becomes even more critical. For digital transformation and fair democratic processes, we need clear guidelines, responsible journalism, transparent platform moderation, and stronger safeguards for data protection and cybersecurity.

Evolving Digital Regulation in Nepal

In 2025, the Social Network Bill, which was introduced in the National Assembly, created significant debate over the control and surveillance of online platforms. The National Assembly has now approved the government’s decision to withdraw the Social Media Bill 2081. The bill had been under detailed review by the Legislation Management Committee, where dozens of lawmakers had proposed amendments. Following public debate and parliamentary scrutiny, its withdrawal signals a pause and proper review to introduce a new regulatory framework for social media.

At the same time, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has issued the Electronic Commerce Directive 2082 to regulate the growing digital marketplace. The directive requires all e-commerce firms to register within seven days and issue electronic invoices. Under the directive, platforms must also encrypt sensitive customer data such as phone number, address, date of birth and so on. The directive further includes a provision to resolve complaints within 15 days. Although the directive addresses some aspects of data protection, Nepal still lacks adequate infrastructure and a comprehensive legal framework to ensure strong data governance.

Emerging Patterns of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence against Women 

The advancement of technology and digital tools has brought a troubling rise in technology-facilitated Gender Based Violence across Nepal. The patriarchal patterns of abuse and power control over women are now increasingly reflected in digital spaces. In Dhangadhi, a 34-year-old man was arrested for sharing private and nude video call recordings of his neighbour on Facebook in an act of revenge. As he had committed similar offences before, prosecutors are seeking a harsher penalty due to repeated violations. In another case, a 29-year-old man from Birgunj has been charged at the Kathmandu District Court for allegedly creating a fake TikTok account and sending abusive and defamatory messages to his former girlfriend. He was even found sharing her semi-nude photos without consent. Similarly, a 39-year-old woman from Palpa has been charged for allegedly sharing a private non-consensual video of another woman via WhatsApp. These episodes of abuse reflect the growing misuse of digital platforms for harassment and exploitation. Such patterns call for an urgent need for stronger prevention measures, responsive and effective remedies, digital critical literacy, and strong protection for victims.

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