Government Bans All Forms of Betting Apps and Websites in Nepal

Kathmandu. The government has ordered the closure of all types of betting applications and websites. In line with the spirit of the Cabinet's 100-point agenda on governance reform, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has implemented the decision to shut down such platforms within 24 hours.

Following a ministerial decision by the Ministry of Communications, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority, in coordination with Internet Service Providers, has already blocked all identified betting sites and apps. According to Ministry Spokesperson Uday Bahadur Ranamagar, promoting or engaging in betting, or advertising to encourage such activities, is illegal under the Muluki Criminal Code, 2074, and the Advertising (Regulation) Act.

According to legal provisions, those involved in betting face confiscation of illicit gains, imprisonment for up to one year, and a fine of up to ten thousand rupees.  

The Ministry has warned the public against using unauthorized betting apps and websites. The Ministry has also appealed to the general public to contact Deputy Director of the Nepal Telecommunications Authority, Surya Prasad Lamichhane, if they become aware of any such activities taking place anywhere.