Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has directed the Nepal Telecommunications Authority to shut down all online betting applications and related websites within 24 hours, officials said Sunday.
The directive, issued under the supervision of Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina, follows a cabinet decision today to curb illegal online gambling in the country. Ministry officials met with department heads to implement the swift closure of betting platforms.
“The process to close these apps has already started. Operators have been instructed to halt all activities immediately,” said Dr. Pradeep Paudel, assistant spokesperson at the Nepal Telecommunications Authority.
The government’s decision comes as part of a broader 100-point administrative reform agenda aimed at stopping illegal financial transactions and capital flight. Point 42 specifically mandates the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to ensure all betting apps and websites are fully blocked within 24 hours.
During the meeting, Minister Timilsina also instructed officials to develop actionable plans for digital services that can be delivered promptly to the public, emphasizing efficient use of resources and effective service delivery. He highlighted the importance of digital governance and data-driven coordination to maximize direct public benefit.
The ministry will now implement daily monitoring and reporting of the shutdown process, with monthly updates submitted to the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretariat.
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