Nepal, June 17 -- CPN-UML lawmaker Ain Mahara has urged the government to ensure free access to the ongoing FIFA World Cup matches in Nepal, criticising the current pay-per-view arrangement.

Speaking in Parliament, Mahara objected to the requirement of paying Rs 999 to watch the tournament, describing it as "an outright rip-off".

He said, "The 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup is currently underway in the United States, Mexico and Canada. But unfortunately, in Nepal, viewers are required to pay Rs 999 to watch it. This is a clear rip-off."

Mahara called on the government to make arrangements so that Nepali football fans can watch the matches freely through all television platforms.

"I urge the government's serious attention to ensur...