More than 7,000 online betting applications and websites have been taken offline as part of the government’s push for governance reform.
Acting on recent cabinet decisions, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA), working closely with internet service providers, has blocked numerous platforms involved in illegal gambling activities.
According to NTA Deputy Director Surya Prasad Lamichhane, service providers have been directed to actively detect and shut down unauthorized betting apps and websites. He confirmed that over 7,000 such platforms have already been disabled.
In just the past week, the authority received more than 50 complaints through phone calls, emails, and messages related to online betting. All reported cases have been investigated, with appropriate action taken.
This initiative aligns with the government’s 100-point governance reform plan approved on March 27. Specifically, point 42 mandates the closure of betting-related digital platforms within 24 hours of identification.
Under Subsection (4) of Section 125 of the Criminal Code, 2074, engaging in or promoting betting is strictly prohibited. Violators face confiscation of funds involved, imprisonment of up to one year, and fines reaching Rs 10,000.
