Kathmandu, Oct. 6 -- Internet service providers in Nepal have announced they will stop selling and renewing internet packages offering speeds below 50 Mbps, prompting consumer advocates to demand that the decision be withdrawn.

The move comes just before the Dashain-Tihar festive season, when ISPs have traditionally offered discounts and other promotional packages. Consumer groups say removing the cheapest plans could put internet access beyond the reach of students, small businesses and low-income households.

The Internet Service Provider Association of Nepal (ISPAN) announced on October 2 that packages described as "affordable" and offering lower speeds would no longer be sold or renewed from October 5. It cited rising costs in intern...