Kathmandu, Nepal – The government is considering providing installment facilities for the renewal fee of telecommunication service provider Ncell’s operating license. This decision comes as Ncell’s current license is set to expire on August 31.
Communication and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung is reportedly preparing a proposal to present to the Council of Ministers to grant this facility. The ministry plans to renew the license without addressing any other outstanding issues related to Ncell’s ownership or liabilities.
Ncell was required to renew its license by May 15, but only paid a partial fee and requested a five-installment payment plan. The company’s recent change in ownership, with Singaporean citizen Satish Lal Acharya acquiring shares from Axiata Group Berhad, has further fueled the push for installment facilities. Acharya has reportedly met with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to advocate for this measure.
The government appears to be leaning towards granting the installment facility, particularly after Acharya expressed willingness to cooperate with ongoing investigations into Ncell’s share purchase and sale. However, Ncell must renew its license by August 31 to avoid a 15% late fee.
