Nepal Bans Sale of Phones Brought from Abroad as Gifts The Government of Nepal has amended the
Jhitigunta rules
to curb the commercial misuse of mobile phones brought from abroad as gifts. According to the new customs regulations, Nepali citizens returning after working abroad for at least six months with a valid labor permit are now allowed to bring only one brand-new mobile phone without paying customs duties. Previously, individuals could bring one new and one used phone. However, the new rule clearly states that mobile phones and other goods brought without customs charges cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. Such items will be marked with a special stamp indicating that they are not for sale, and any attempt to sell or purchase them can result in confiscation by the authorities.
NTA Seeks Public Feedback on IPv6 Migration Byelaw The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has released a “
Consultation Paper on IPv6 Migration Byelaw, 2082 (2025)” inviting stakeholders, experts, and interested parties to submit comments and suggestions within 30 days of its publication on June 4, 2025. Inputs can be sent electronically or in writing.
Under Section 62 of the Telecommunication Act, 2053 (1997), the NTA has drafted the byelaw to guide Nepal’s transition from IPv4 to IPv6. The regulation sets standards for network configuration, mandatory reporting, compliance monitoring, and dispute resolution to ensure the smooth, secure, and effective deployment of IPv6 networks. The byelaw applies to all NTA licensees and aims to strengthen Nepal’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Cyber Bureau Warns Against SMS Phishing Scams
The Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police has warned the public not to click on phishing SMS links sent under names like Khalti and ConnectIPS. Hackers have misused bulk SMS services to send fake alerts, tricking users into logging into lookalike websites and stealing their credentials. The bureau urges people to stay cautious, avoid suspicious links, and report such incidents to the concerned wallet, bank, or nearest police office.
Senior Adv. Thapa Faces Backlash After Assaulting Journalist
Senior Advocate Shambhu Thapa assaulted Nepal Press journalist Umesh Karki while he was covering Thapa’s visit to the NCP (Unified Socialist) Party Office. Thapa attacked Karki’s camera, sparking condemnation from fellow journalists and widespread criticism on social media. The incident was captured on video outside the Nepal Communist Party (Unified Socialist) office on June 5, 2025. The footage, widely shared on Facebook, shows Thapa behaving angrily and striking Karki’s camera, while other journalists express outrage at his irresponsible conduct.
TikTok Mental Health Tips Riddled with Misinformation, Experts Warn
A Guardian investigation found that over half of the top 100 trending TikTok videos under #mentalhealthtips contain misinformation. Experts revealed that these posts often misuse therapeutic language, promote “quick fixes,” and falsely pathologize normal emotions. While TikTok says it removes harmful content and directs users to NHS resources, MPs and health professionals are calling for stronger regulation under the Online Safety Act to curb the spread of misleading advice that may harm vulnerable users.
Birgunj to Remove Disorganized Utility Wires Within 15 Days
Birgunj to remove tangled telephone, internet, and cable wires from utility poles within 15 days to beautify the city’s appearance. The decision came from a disaster management meeting on June 3, led by Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal.
A task force headed by Deputy Superintendent of Police Kishor Lamsal, including officials from Nepal Telecom, the metropolitan city, Nepal Electricity Authority, and others, has been active since June 4 to manage the cleanup.
Officials cited rising fire risks from the disorganized wires and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts. Police Chief Gautam Mishra warned of legal action if the wires are not cleared on time. Local telecom providers Worldlink and CG net have committed to support the initiative.
