Nepal Television Satellite Bandwidth Purchase Marred by Irregularities

A study committee formed to investigate the purchase of satellite bandwidth by Nepal Television (now known as Public Service Broadcasting Corporation) has submitted its report to the government, highlighting serious irregularities and financial losses.

The committee’s report, submitted to Information and Communications Minister Dr. Vikram Thapa, points out that the purchase of satellite bandwidth was marred by illegal activities, procedural weaknesses, and financial indiscipline, resulting in significant financial losses to the corporation.

The committee was formed on Jestha 22, 2083, to investigate the purchase of satellite bandwidth by Nepal Television, following complaints and reports from various agencies and the Office of the Auditor General.

The report states that the purchase of satellite bandwidth was not done through a competitive process, and the contract was extended without following the proper procedure. It also points out that the payment for the bandwidth was made before the service was started, and the cost estimate was inflated, resulting in unnecessary financial burden on the corporation.

The report also highlights that the satellite service provider was selected without following the proper procedure, and the contract was signed without proper evaluation. It also points out that the payment for the bandwidth was not made through the government’s revenue account, resulting in a loss of revenue.

The committee has recommended that necessary action be taken against those responsible for the irregularities and financial losses. It has also recommended that the government take necessary steps to prevent such irregularities in the future.

Nepal Television has been purchasing satellite bandwidth from foreign companies since 2002 to broadcast its channels. The committee’s report has pointed out that the corporation has been facing financial difficulties due to the irregularities and financial indiscipline in the purchase of satellite bandwidth.

The report has also highlighted that the management of Nepal Television, including the board of directors and the executive committee, was responsible for the irregularities and financial losses. It has recommended that necessary action be taken against them.