Nepal Insurance Authority imposes fines on three insurers for misconduct

KATHMANDU: The Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) has taken a strict stance against misconduct in the insurance sector, imposing a cash fine of Rs 200,000 against each of three prominent insurers. United Ajod Insurance, Rastriya Beema Company, and IGI Prudential Insurance Ltd are among the companies penalized by the regulator.

The NIA investigation revealed several instances of wrongdoing by these insurers, including the sale of insurance policies on credit, manipulation of bonus rates to the detriment of policyholders, failure to implement anti-money laundering measures, and unwarranted delays in settling insurance claims for clients.

The regulatory action underscores the NIA’s commitment to maintaining ethical practices and upholding the integrity of the insurance industry. The fines are intended to serve as a deterrent against such practices, ensuring that insurers adhere to the highest standards of transparency and professionalism.

According to sources within the NIA, the decision to penalize these insurers was made after they failed to provide satisfactory responses to queries raised during the regulatory clarification process. This emphasizes the importance of insurers promptly addressing concerns raised by regulatory authorities to avoid penalties.

The NIA’s move aligns with its broader objective of fostering a healthy and accountable insurance sector in Nepal. By holding insurers accountable for their conduct, the regulator aims to safeguard the interests of policyholders and maintain public trust in the insurance industry.

The affected insurers are now under increased scrutiny, and the NIA expects them to rectify their practices promptly. The fines serve as a wake-up call to the entire insurance sector, emphasizing the need for compliance with regulations and ethical standards to ensure the well-being of policyholders and the stability of the industry.