86 TV channels apply for acquiring downlink license in Nepal

KATHMANDU - At least 86 television channels have applied to Nepal’s Information and Communications Ministry for acquiring downlink license as per the provision made by the National Broadcasting Regulations.

The RSS news agency reported on Monday that the National Broadcasting Regulations stipulates that any foreign broadcasters wanting to transmit their programs being broadcast in their countries in Nepal by down- linking the program should apply to the Ministry of Information and Communications in the stipulated format for acquiring the license.

Before issuing the license for downlinking the programs, the ministry has to take into account the language and content of the program.

The ministry stated that it has received complaints that some local distributors in Nepal have been illegally transmitting and distributing foreign channels by means of DTH.

The law requires that the foreign channels without the down-linking license cannot be transmitted and distributed in Nepal except those that are in the process of getting the license.

The ministry said it can take under its control the equipment used in the transmission and distribution if it is found that any television channel is illegally broadcasting and distributing foreign programs without acquiring the license.

It said it can also make necessary provisions under which the equipment would be rendered unusable or it can take stern action against any offenders as per the existing laws. (ANI)