KATHMANDU: Freedom Forum Nepal has expressed concern about the government’s apathy towards effecting reforms in the media sector.

“The budget lacks programmes for the enhancement of press freedom,” stated Forum in a release. “Regrettably, little has been done for resolving the problems of working journalists and ensuring the security of media institutions.”

“Implementing Working Journalists’ Act, Right to Information Act, setting up a Public Service Broadcasting Authority, amending Press and Publication Act are some issues not dealt with by the budget,” read the statement. However, Forum, welcomed the policy of exempting renewal fee for FM radios and television stations and doubling the spending under Public Welfare Advertisement, among others.