NTA shuts down over 7,000 betting apps, websites

KATHMANDU: More than 7,000 apps and websites linked to online betting have been shut down.

The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA), in coordination with internet service providers, carried out the closures as part of the government’s governance reform measures.

The action follows a cabinet decision on March 27 that included 100 action points; point 42 requires betting-related apps and websites to be shut down within 24 hours.

NTA Deputy Director Surya Prasad Lamichhane said that internet service providers were instructed to identify and shut down gambling-related apps and URLs operating illegally. “So far, more than 7,000 such URLs and apps have been closed. In the past week, the NTA has received more than 50 complaints through various means such as telephone, email, and messages regarding online betting, all of which are being addressed, and action has been taken,” he said.

NTA said each complaint is being investigated and acted upon in coordination with service providers.

Under Subsection (4) of Section 125 of the Criminal Code, 2074, no one shall engage in betting or cause others to do so; violations may result in confiscation of the stake amount, imprisonment for up to one year, and a fine of up to Rs 10,000.

By RSS