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Two of the biggest mobile battle royale games, PUBG Mobile and Free Fire have been put on the spotlight by a politician, CPN-UML MP Asha Kumari B.K. while speaking at the 'Zero Hour' in Nepal's House of Representatives a few days back on 27th July. She spoke against the two mobile titles demanding strict action to be taken against them, citing concerns about the mental well-being of children. Kumari straight up proposed closing down the two online games due to their alleged harmful effects on the children, who have reportedly displayed anxiety, agitation, and lack of concentration.
This is not the first time that PUBG Mobile has come under the ban scanner, as Nepal had previously temporarily banned the game once in 2019. However, the developers had managed to overturn the game ban soon, following a decision taken by Nepal's apex court.
Nepal goverment urged to ban PUBG Mobile and Free Fire citing mental health issues
The Nepal government was urged by a parliamentarian to ban popular mobile battle royales, PUBG Mobile and Free Fire, due to their alleged negative mental impact and harmful effects on children.
CPN-UML MP Asha Kumari B.K. spoke for about a minute against these online games, highlighting that internet usage had increased considerably along with addiction of children to online games. She went on to state the following,
Online games like PUBG Mobile and Free Fire have a detrimental effect on the mental well-being of children. I would like to bring this matter to the attention of the government through the Speaker. Otherwise, there might be a day when guardians and parents might knock the court's door seeking for justice.CPN-UML MP Asha Kumari B.K. - During Zero Hour in Nepal's House of Representatives
Asha putting forth her personal opinion on the topic conveyed that taking action against these games is crucial for the betterment of children, saving them from the harmful consequences it can result in.
Note: Timestamp 07:00 to 07:45.
A few months back, a similar situation had arisen in Bangladesh, as multiple governmental bodies like the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Home Affairs had recommended the discontinuation of both PUBG Mobile and Free Fire within the country due to the addiction they have created among teenagers and young adults.
The game is yet to be banned by the Bangladeshi government. Now a few months later, the Nepal government faces a similar situation, it has yet to be seen how the authorities respond to this situation.
