Kathmandu. More than seven thousand apps and websites (URLs) related to online betting have been closed.

As part of the implementation of the government’s decision on governance reforms, the Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) has shut down websites and apps in coordination with the Internet Service Providers.

Surya Prasad Lamichhane, deputy director of Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA), said that internet service providers have been directed to identify and ban betting apps and websites operating illegally.

“So far, more than seven thousand such URLs and apps have been closed. In the past one week, the authority has received more than 50 complaints about online betting through various means including telephone, email and message. “, he said.

Out of the 100 agendas related to governance reforms approved by the meeting of the Council of Ministers on March 27, point 42 states that betting apps and websites will be shut down within 24 hours. In line with this decision, NTA, in coordination with the Internet Service Providers, has immediately shut down all the identified apps and websites related to betting being operated through the electronic medium.

According to Section 125 (4) of the Civil Code, 2074 BS, no one is allowed to bet or cause to be betting. Those found violating the bill will be imprisoned for up to one year and fined up to Rs 10,000.

Similarly, the Advertising (Regulation) Act, 2066 (2066) prohibits gambling or gambling and advertisements that encourage the purchase and purchase of lotteries without permission. Anyone found guilty of the offence will be jailed for up to one year and fined up to Rs 10,000.

The government has again urged people not to use and operate betting apps and websites. It has warned of strict action if found operating or using it unauthorisedly. The government has also urged people to inform the concerned authorities if they have information about suspicious apps or websites.