KATHMANDU: The Advertisement Board has introduced a mandate requiring all advertisements to undergo testing before they can be aired. This decision comes in response to the proliferation of misleading advertisements on social media, particularly those promoting various products as expensive solutions to different diseases such as teas, oils, shampoos, medicines, and others.

Nishan Raj Gautam, the Spokesperson and Chief Administrative Officer of the Advertisement Board, emphasized the importance of adhering to this regulation. Gautam highlighted that airing advertisements without proper testing and permission would result in legal consequences, as stipulated by the law. He further stressed that advertisers must obtain permission before broadcasting their advertisements, with a three-day window provided for compliance.

Of late, there has been an increase in advertisements circulating on social media promoting chemical products for diagnosing various ailments. In response, the Advertisement Board has reminded advertisers of the legal requirement under Section 15(b) of the Advertisement (Regulation) Act, 2076 BS, which mandates the testing of all audio, visual, and audiovisual advertisements before broadcasting.

Moreover, the Advertisement Board has addressed another concern regarding advertisements failing to disclose the names of the individuals or companies behind the advertised goods and services. This omission has led to numerous complaints, indicating a need for greater transparency and accountability within the advertising industry.