KATHMANDU: The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has fined 14 internet service providers (ISPs) Rs. 50,000 each for providing services in violation of its approved standards and conditions.
According to a press release issued by the NTA, the fines were imposed under Section 47(1) of the Telecommunications Act, 2053, after an inspection and investigation confirmed that the companies had violated the terms of their licences.
NTA spokesperson Min Prasad Aryal said the service providers were penalized for failing to deliver services in accordance with approved packages, overcharging customers, offering packages different from those approved and failing to inform customers about such packages in a timely manner.
He said the action was aimed at curbing unethical practices in the internet service sector.
According to the Authority, service providers are required to submit proposed tariffs and their effective dates for approval at least three months in advance, in line with the guidelines on tariff determination. However, investigations found that some providers had failed to comply with this requirement.
The 14 service providers facing penalties are Broadlink Network and Communication Pvt. Ltd., Classic Tech Pvt. Ltd., Websurfer Nepal Communication System Pvt. Ltd., Fiberworld Communication Pvt. Ltd., Vianet Communications Ltd., Aeronet Pvt. Ltd., Dish Media Network Ltd., Wifi Nepal Pvt. Ltd., C.G. Communication Ltd., WorldLink Communications Ltd., Firstlink Communication Pvt. Ltd., Pokhara Internet Pvt. Ltd., Techminds Network Pvt. Ltd. and Subisu Cablenet Ltd.
The Authority has directed the companies to immediately suspend internet packages and tariff rates introduced without prior approval and report the actions taken to the NTA.
They have also been instructed to compensate customers for any losses incurred as a result of the violations, based on claims submitted by the affected customers.
The NTA has reminded all licensed telecommunications service providers that they must obtain prior approval before introducing any service package or tariff plan. Providers are prohibited from offering unapproved packages and must comply with all applicable laws, regulations and licence conditions.