Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) has dismissed rumors of collusion with internet service providers (ISPs) to increase internet service prices. Releasing a notice, the regulator refuted accusations that companies decided to hike internet prices on mutual agreement and with its consent.
Recently, rumors have surfaced that some ISPs even increased their tariff calling it as directed by the authority. Since public discontent has started coming in, the authority said that the allegations have strongly drawn its attention.
It also reminded ISPs and stakeholders that increasing internet tariffs unilaterally will go against the Telecommunication Act, 2053, and the Competition Promotion and Market Protection Act, 2063.
The authority also reminded that there is a prevalent practice regarding the implementation of internet service charges in Nepal. Service providers licensed by NTA must obtain approval for service charges as per Section 41 of the Telecommunication Act, 2053. Additionally, they must mention the date of receiving the approval and publish it to their customers and the public. Only then, the tariffs can go into implementation. The authority said that it has occasionally reminded service providers of the provision. In its statement, it said that market competition always remains a focus while granting approval for internet charges.
In the recent past, NTA has taken action against ISPs over internet prices. So, it’s fair to say that any rumor of its involvement with service providers for price hikes is baseless.
Also read: Government fixes basic TV packages price in Nepal at Rs 250, Max Rs 500
No collusion with ISPs for Internet price hikes- NTA assures
NTA says that it has not granted any ISPs approval for increasing internet costs. Adding further, it said that neither it has not notified for hiking the tariffs against the existing charges. So, the authority has urged internet customers and the public to be assured that it hasn’t directed any company to increase their internet prices.
It has also requested the public for any information regarding the issue. “If a bill/invoice has been issued to any consumer charging more than the approved tariff rate, it is also requested to provide the information to the authority and help in the regulation,” the notice reads. Check out: How Cheaper Will Internet Be After the 3% TSC Cut?
Have you recently heard any rumors relating to increasing internet prices? Do share which ISP you think provides the most affordable internet service in Nepal below in the comments.
