Two television channels promoted by yoga guru Ramdev in Nepal have stirred controversy after they were being operated without registration.
During a function on Friday, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba launched the two channels — Aastha Nepal TV and Patanjali Nepal TV — in the presence of Ramdev, Acharaya Balkrishna and other top leaders of major political parties.
“Foreign investment in the media sector is prohibited as per the Nepali law. We have not received any application to register these two television channels,” Gogon Bahadur Hamal, Director General, Department of Information and Broadcasting, said.
“We have formed an investigation team to study the registration of the television channels. If they have started broadcasting without prior approval, we will take action,” he said.
As per reports, Patanjali has invested in the two channels where Ramdev and Acharaya Balkrishna are the main promoters.
As per Nepali law, foreign investment is not allowed in the media and film sectors.
But if any foreign television channel needs to operate from Nepal, one should have fulfilled all required legal and other procedures.
During the function, Prime Minister Deuba had assured that he will provide land for Patanjali for medical purposes.
The two channels were part of Patanjali group’s latest venture.