KATHMANDU, MAY 13
Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, said on Monday that the government remains committed to press freedom and has not interfered in it.
Speaking at a programme marking the silver jubilee of Yugaahwan National Daily in Surkhet, Minister Gurung said some sections of society have misinterpreted the proposed Social Media Regulation Bill.
He argued that misuse of press freedom has contributed to growing disorder and cybercrime, adding, "Anarchy and indiscipline have increased in our country in the name of press freedom," he said, "We must regulate this, and for that, we are preparing to introduce the Mass Communication Bill."
Gurung noted that over 40,000 cybercrime cases have been registered, and no one should be allowed to spread misinformation in the name of freedom of expression.
Minister Gurung also emphasized that no media outlet should engage in activities that disturb social and ethnic harmony.
