KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) - In a bid to regulate social media platforms and maintain social harmony in the country, Nepal's government announced on Monday the immediate ban of the popular social media app TikTok.

The decision came after a Cabinet meeting, where Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud revealed that the ban was necessary to address the platform's disruptive influence on social harmony, goodwill, and the circulation of indecent materials.

The government has taken steps to hold social media platforms accountable by requiring them to register, establish a liaison office in Nepal, pay taxes, and adhere to the country's laws and regulations, Saud explained.

It remains unclear what specifically triggered the ban or whether TikTok had refused to comply with Nepal's requests. Despite an email seeking comment, the company did not provide an immediate response.

TikTok, owned by China's ByteDance, has faced scrutiny in numerous countries due to concerns that it could potentially harvest user data or serve the interests of the Chinese government. Countries such as the United States, Britain, and New Zealand have already banned the app from government phones. TikTok has repeatedly denied any data sharing with the Chinese government and has declared it would not comply if asked.

It is worth noting that Nepal had previously banned all pornographic sites in 2018, further exemplifying the government's commitment to regulating online content within its borders.

The ban on TikTok highlights Nepal's aim to ensure responsible and accountable use of social media platforms, safeguard social harmony, and protect its citizens from potential threats associated with the app.

Title: Nepal Implements Immediate Ban on TikTok Over Disruption of Social Harmony