N. P. Cracks Down on Online Abuse toward Flood Survivors

Tue Sep 08 2026 10:58:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The government vows no leniency against hateful online comments that target Nepal’s flood victims, while police probe digital harassment cases.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has declared a crack‑down on social media abuse aimed at survivors of last month’s deadly floods. Police are tracking the origin of the hostile remarks and a 10‑member committee has been formed to investigate the matter. Under the Electronic Transactions Act victims could face up to five years in prison and a fine of 100,000 rupees if they are found guilty. Experts warn that some hateful comments stem from ‘rage baiting’ or strong nationalist supporters, further polarising public discussion.

N. P. Cracks Down on Online Abuse toward Flood Survivors

Late last month the country experienced catastrophic flooding that killed hundreds and displaced thousands. Many victims turned to social media to share their stories and ask for help, but some posts attracted crippling hostility.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah warned in a Facebook message that those who are careless or arrogant toward suffering people will be treated as criminals. “Those who publicly mock or add new pain to people at this terrible time are criminal offenders”, he posted, calling for a severe response to the trend.

Police officials are investigating the source of the hateful tweets and comments, promising to unmask addresses and phone numbers. A 10‑member committee was set up to see whether further disciplinary action is needed.

One woman whose brother is missing after the floods highlighted slow search operations in an interview. She later received a wave of harsh comments blaming her for pressuring officials, which she claimed deepened her anguish.

Another woman, posted on video that spread like wildfire, asked the government to show her her husband’s body or at least find him. The clip attracted profanity and an urge for her to interfere by “jumping into the river”. Some responded with encouragement, but many dehumanised her and the tragedy itself.

The Justice Department’s Electronic Transactions Act provides that anyone who defames or harasses online can be imprisoned for up to five years, fined up to 100,000 rupees (about US$662), or receive both sentences.

Dovan Rai, the executive director of the non‑profit Body & Data, said that “ rage‑baiting ” – provoking outrage to increase engagement – was a likely motive behind the acrimonious posts. He also noted that some posts were likely made by loyal supporters of the government who vehemently opposed any criticism.

N. P. is under scrutiny to see how such abuse can be slowed and a clearer, more compassionate narrative maintained on digital platforms. Meanwhile, survivors are calling for improved rescue, relief and support without the traffic of hate on their already hard‑pressed lives.