Contempt Case Filed Against NBA President Gopal Krishna Ghimire
On September 30, Nepal’s Supreme
Court initiated a contempt of court case against Nepal Bar Association (NBA) Chairman Gopal Krishna Ghimire following his criticism of the Judicial Council’s nomination of two high court chief judges as Supreme Court justices. Ghimire had accused the nominations of being financially motivated and criticized Chief Justice Bishowambhar Prasad Shrestha’s role, leading to a
suo motu case against him. Despite the filing, the case is not expected to be heard immediately, with the hearing tentatively set for 17 October. The ongoing disputes between the judiciary and the NBA have drawn public criticism.
Kathmandu Court Grants Bail to Medical Entrepreneur Durga Prasain
The Kathmandu District Court has allowed medical entrepreneur
Durga Prasain to be released on bail for NPR 100,000. He was arrested after making comments about a woman’s character, which led to charges related to electronic offenses. The court set the bail at NPR 50,000 for each of two separate cases linked to these charges. He was arrested from his home in Bhaktapur by the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police on 22 September, but with bail granted, he can stay out of custody while the cases continue in the court.
UN Adopts Pact for the Future
On 22 September 2024, world leaders adopted the “Pact for the Future” in New York, reimagining global governance to address key challenges like peace, security, sustainable development, climate change, and digital cooperation. It includes a Global Digital Compact, focusing on internet access, AI governance, and digital inclusion. The Pact renews commitments to nuclear disarmament, net-zero emissions by 2050, and global data governance, with strong pledges from diverse stakeholders, including USD 1.05 billion for advancing digital inclusion.
Latest Floods and Landslides Caused havoc to Telecom Sector
Since September 28, severe floods and landslides in Nepal have caused significant disruptions to mobile and internet services, resulting in estimated losses of around Rs 290 million for the telecommunications sector. Preliminary data from the Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) indicates that Nepal Telecom has suffered losses of about Rs 70 million, while Ncell has faced approximately Rs 150 million in damages. Internet service providers are expected to incur losses of about Rs 70 million.
The floods have disrupted power supplies, leading to the shutdown of several base transceiver stations (BTS) and cutting off communication in affected areas. In regions like southern Lalitpur, mobile services remain down due to ongoing power issues. The reliance on unstable power sources, particularly solar systems, has further exacerbated service outages. Internet services have also been hindered by damaged fiber infrastructure, with slow repairs, especially in areas outside the Kathmandu Valley. While services have gradually resumed, the delays highlight the telecom providers’ lack of preparedness for such crises.
NIC Urges for Information Integrity During Disasters
National Information Commission (NIC) has urged government and public agencies to provide accurate information during disasters like floods and landslides. Emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in democracy, the NIC believes that timely and correct information can help garner support from the public for relief efforts. Spokesperson Kamala Oli Thapa warned of the risks posed by misleading information and called for arrangements to publicize relief and rescue materials through various communication channels. The Commission also highlighted the need for media personnel and right-to-information activists to ensure their safety while collecting and disseminating information.
Foreign Minister Advocates Responsible AI Use at Asian Cooperation Dialogue
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arju Rana Deuba, addressed the Asian Cooperation Dialogue in Doha, Qatar, emphasizing the responsible and dignified use of artificial intelligence (AI) for global welfare. Speaking at the “AI and New Business Model” session on 2 October, Minister Rana highlighted AI as a transformative tool for peace, stability, and prosperity. She stressed its potential in sectors like education, health, governance, and business, while also acknowledging challenges such as privacy risks and job displacement. Minister Rana further called on global investors to explore opportunities in Nepal, with AI as a potential area for investment.
