MOFAGA Issues Circular to Stop Indiscriminate Removal of Telecom Cables
The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MOFAGA) has issued a circular to local levels, including Kathmandu Metropolitan City, instructing them not to remove telecom service cables indiscriminately in the name of “beautifying the city.” This notice comes in response to several municipalities that have been removing internet, TV, and other cables from poles.
Despite a letter from the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration advising against it, the KMC has decided to proceed with the removal of unmanaged wires on the roads. Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen) announced on 5 May via social media that KMC would be taking action to remove the disorganized wires. The KMC had previously given concerned service providers 15 days to remove the unmanaged cables.
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MoCIT Launched NITERCT
The Ministry of Communication Information and Technology (MoCIT) marked the 6th ICT day by launching National Information Technology Emergency Response Team (NITERT), the Central CERT website (nitert.gov.np) on 2nd of May . The newly launched website provides access to news, articles, and information on cyber hygiene and global cybersecurity. It also allows users to report cyber incidents, phishing attacks, and related attempts.
Madhesh Province Simplifies Online Media Registration Process
Madhesh Province has taken initiative to simplify the process of online media registration, making registration possible in the province itself. Previously, media companies had to visit Kathmandu, the capital city, for online media registration and renewal of operation permits, creating inconvenience and bureaucratic hurdles for media.
CSOs Concerns Over Upcoming Bills
During the National Symposium on Regulatory Frameworks for Cyberspace in Nepal, organized by The Digital Freedom Coalition and Nepal Bar Association on National Information Technology Day & International Press Freedom Day, stakeholders discussed that the upcoming parliamentary session may table bills that include provisions about restricting freedom of expression and controlling ICT industry. Political party leaders, lawmakers, media personnel, and representatives from the communication, law, and technology sectors stressed the need for sufficient discussion and consultation in the law-making process.
The Media Council Bill and the Information Technology Bill, previously presented during the previous parliament’s tenure, are set to be reintroduced by the government. However, concerns have been raised regarding possible provisions on restricting freedom of expression. Additionally, the government is drafting the Cyber Security Bill and the E-Commerce Bill, which will also need to be closely scrutinized.
Indian Government Bans 14 Messaging Apps for Allegedly Spreading Terror
In accordance with Section 69A of India’s IT law, the Indian government has banned a new batch of apps, including 14 applications, 13 of which were solely used for secure messaging, and another one that supports storing photos, videos, and conversations. Authorities have indicated that the apps were banned as terrorists used the listed apps to communicate among themselves. The Indian agencies found that these mobile applications do not have representatives in India, making it difficult to track activities happening on the app.
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DRN organized Workshop on Exploring Digital Safety Issues in Nepal
On May 5, 2023, Digital Rights Nepal (DRN) held a workshop with various civil society organizations, activists, lawyers, and academics to examine the digital safety concerns in Nepal. The primary objective of the workshop was to delve into the challenges, opportunities, gaps, and potential solutions related to digital safety issues in Nepal.
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New Podcast alert!!!
Law kura Garau (let’s talk law), a podcast series by Mero Adda in support with Digital Rights Nepal, has published its new podcast episode. The latest episode includes a conversation with Adv. Santosh Sigdel, Executive Director, Digital Rights Nepal, where they discuss a range of topics including state cyber security, data breaches, digital rights, and related legal issues. This candid conversation also touches on subjects such as freedom of expression, right to information, and transitional justice. Tune in to learn more about these critical issues. Podcast available on various platform YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast. |
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APrIGF 2023 Call For Session Proposals – Deadline Extended
The APrIGF Program Committee has decided to extend the call for session proposals until May 14th, 2023 (Sunday) at 23:59 UTC. The APrIGF 2023 is inviting proposals for sessions under the broad theme of “Emerging Technologies – Is Asia Pacific Ready for the Next Phase of the Internet?” If you’re interested in contributing to this important discussion, submit your proposal by the new deadline!
For more: APrIGF 2023 Call For Session Proposals – Deadline Extended – APrIGF.Asia
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Digital Rights Weekly is a week-based update on Digital Rights and ICT issues, that happened throughout the week, compiled and analyzed from the digital rights perspective by Digital Rights Nepal (DRN). DRN is a not-for-profit initiative dedicated to the protection and promotion of digital rights, including the right to online freedom of expression and association, online privacy, access to information, and related issues such as internet governance, cyber laws/policies, and cyber securities in Nepal.
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