Controversy Surrounds NTA Chairman Appointment Process
The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) initiated the
application process for the position of chairman, inviting applications for the leadership role in the telecom sector regulator. Unlike the previous 15-day deadline, this time, candidates are given a significantly shorter window of seven days to apply for the chairman and board member positions.
However, the appointment process has faced legal challenges, with a
writ petition filed in the Supreme Court against the alleged violation of the law in call for application of chairman of the NTA chairman. Advocates Ananta Raj Luitel and others have filed a case claiming that the application call for the chairman’s appointment by NTA contradicts the Telecommunication Act. This controversy has added uncertainty to the ongoing process of selecting the NTA chairman.
TU Transitions to Online Services Amidst Cybersecurity Challenge
In a significant stride towards digital transformation, The Tribhuvan University (TU) has commenced providing exam-related services through an online system from 29 January 2024. This initiative is designed to enhance efficiency, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and eliminate the need for students to physically visit the university. However, the enthusiasm surrounding this progressive move was dampened when, on the very next day after the launch, the TUOCE website (tuexam.edu.np) fell victim to a cyberattack. Since January 30, the website has remained under the control of hackers, redirecting visitors to a Facebook profile named ‘Rohit Rokaya.’ As per the latest report, the TUOCE website was successfully reclaimed from the hackers on 31 January, and is still under maintenance.
MoICS Approved Startup Loan Procedure, 2080
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies ( MoICS) has given the green light to the Startup Enterprises Loan Operation Procedure, 2080 BS. Minister Ramesh Rijal endorsed the startup procedure, enabling loans of up to Rs 2.5 million against project collateral. These loans, facilitated through the Rastriya Banijya Bank, will incur only a 3 percent annual interest rate. As part of the budget for the current fiscal year 2080/81 BS, Rs 250 million has been allocated for startup enterprises and loan programs, and this fund will be extended to the lending bank. The procedure encompasses 16 types of enterprises, including science, technology, information, and communication, under the startup enterprises category.
LMC introduced LMC Alert Mobile App
Lalitpur Metropolitan City (LMC) introduces the ‘LMC Alert Mobile App’ to enhance communication and promptly address residents’ immediate concerns. The unveiling event emphasized the app’s efficiency in handling complaints, calamities, and various citizen-reported problems. Specifically designed for rapid communication to Metropolitan Police, the app enables the submission of 21 alerts and complaints directly to the control room with just three taps, ensuring swift response to problems within the metropolitan area.
A Youtuber Arrested for Character Assassination
The police have apprehended Manoj Kumar Mahato, a Youtuber, resident of Siraha Lahan Municipality-24. The arrest follows a complaint from a woman who accused him of character assassination through a YouTube video. The victim alleged that the video, containing false details, caused unnecessary grief and trouble, impacting both her personal and social life. Manoj is now under investigation for offenses under the Electronic Transaction Act, 2063 BS, with a five-day remand permission obtained from the Kathmandu District Court.
Meta Tightens Direct Message Settings for Teen Safety
In response to growing concerns over teenage safety on social media, Meta Platforms Inc. is enforcing stricter default direct message settings for teens on Instagram and Facebook. This proactive step comes amidst heightened worries from lawmakers and parents regarding the potential exposure of young users to harmful content on these platforms. As outlined in a recent blog post from Meta, the company is disabling the option for teens to receive direct messages from individuals they do not follow or are not already connected to on Instagram.
Ncell Probe Report Public: Doubts in Technical and Financial Competence
The study and investigation committee for examining Ncell’s share purchase and sale has presented its report to the government. The report expressed concerns about the technical and financial capabilities of the buyer, questioned the commercial value and terms of the publicly disclosed share transaction and agreement by Ncell Axiata, noted the absence of prior approval, as required by law, for the majority of Ncell’s share transactions. The committee has suggested to the government that it would not be appropriate to accept the share purchase agreement in the current status.
