NTA Fines 14 Internet Service Providers in Nepal NRs 50,000 Each Over Compliance Violations
The action was taken in accordance with Section 47(1) of the Telecommunications Act, 2053 (1997), following inspections and investigations that confirmed a breach of license terms.
Why Did NTA Penalize Major Internet Service Providers?
According to NTA Spokesperson Min Prasad Aryal, the regulatory body took action to protect consumer rights and curb non-competitive practices.
The investigation revealed that the penalized ISPs were engaged in several regulatory violations:
Non-Compliance with Directives: Refusal to comply with orders issued by the telecom regulator.
Selling Unapproved Packages: Rolling out internet speed and bandwidth packages without prior approval from the authority.
Overcharging Subscribers: Charging service fees exceeding the official tariffs approved by NTA.
Lack of Transparency: Failing to inform consumers about terms, rates, and package specifications within the mandated timeframe.
“Action has been taken to curb activities that breach consumer trust, such as offering non-approved packages, failing to supply advertised bandwidth, and overcharging users.” Min Prasad Aryal, Spokesperson, NTA
Full List of the 14 Fined Internet Companies in Nepal
The financial penalty applies to 14 active ISPs operating across Nepal:
# Internet Service Provider (ISP) Legal Entity
1. WorldLink Communications Ltd.
2. Vianet Communications Ltd.
3. Subisu Ltd.
4. Classic Tech Pvt. Ltd.
5. CG Net / CG Communication Ltd.
6. Dish Media Network Ltd.
7. Web Surfer Nepal Communication System Pvt. Ltd.
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8. Broadlink Network & Communication Pvt. Ltd.
9. WiFi NepalWiFi Nepal Pvt. Ltd.
10. TechMinds Network Ltd.
11. Pokhara Internet Pvt. Ltd.
12. Aeronet Pvt. Ltd.
13. Fiberworld Communication Pvt. Ltd.
14. First Link Communication Pvt. Ltd.
NTA Directives: Mandates and Consumer Compensation
Along with the fines, the NTA has issued strict instructions to all ISPs regarding future operations:
1. Halt Unapproved Packages Immediately
All 14 service providers must immediately shut down unapproved internet packages and unverified tariff rates, submitting an official compliance report back to the NTA.
2. Mandatory 3-Month Advance Notice
Under the NTA Tariff Guidelines, service providers are legally required to submit proposed tariff revisions or new internet packages at least three months prior to launch for regulatory review and approval.
3. Customer Compensation Provision
The NTA has directed ISPs to compensate affected consumers upon request if illegal package alterations or unexpected rate increases resulted in financial loss or service disruption.
How Internet Users Can File a Complaint with NTA?
The regulator reiterated that no general internet tariff increase has been authorized. If your ISP is overcharging you or selling unlisted, non-standard internet plans, you can file an official complaint directly with the regulator:
Authority: Nepal Telecommunications Authority (Consumer Protection Division)
Action: Submit receipts, plan details, and proof of overcharging or lower-than-promised bandwidth.
