The Internet Service Providers Association Nepal (ISPAN) has positively responded to a recent decision from the Office of the Attorney General in the interest of consumers and the service industry. The body issued a statement on Monday, expressing the Attorney General’s Office for its decision, which it believes protects consumers from additional financial burdens.
The Attorney General’s office made the decision that clears confusion on internet prices and telecommunications service charges (TSC). The very issue has been running with debate and controversy for a long time in Nepal’s internet service sector. ISPAN has shared that the decision legally explains the provision, which doesn’t impose an extra financial burden on customers while also helping the sustenance of the internet service industry.
According to the association, the Attorney General’s Office has concluded that consumers will not be subject to additional TSC in connection with the maintenance charges levied on fixed wired broadband (fiber internet) services, while interpreting the law. The statement cited provisions of Section 15(Ja) of the Telecommunications Regulations, 2054, Section 42(1)(Ka) of the Telecommunications Act, 2053, and the Economic Act, which state that such charges are not subject to TSC.
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ISPAN down with Attorney General Office decision on TSC
ISPAN says that the Attorney General’s decision gives Nepali ISPs a legal justification to collect TSC on 50% of the total tariff. The joint internet body says that the decision has brought relief to both customers and the industry. It states that now, there is no argument to make that additional taxes are required, meaning that both ISPs and customers won’t face the burden of further fare increases.
The statement references the United Nations’ interpretation of the internet as a fundamental right and states that it shall be regarded as an essential service in Nepal, too. It also mentions that the internet has played a fundamental role in Nepal’s digital transformation, realizing the goals of the Digital Nepal Framework, and in employment generation. Also, the industry has helped connect remote and rural areas of Nepal while also helping with investments worth billions, and bringing revenues to the government. So, the industry will continue to be vital for Nepal.
ISPAN stated that the Attorney General’s office’s decision will further help ensure affordable and accessible internet access.
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