KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has urged the public to avoid falling for sponsored misinformation and rumors circulating on social media. Addressing the party’s Mission Party Awareness Campaign and leader-worker gathering on Sunday, he expressed concern over the growing trend of reacting without verifying facts.

Oli advised the public not to blindly chase after rumors, using the metaphor of a crow taking away one’s ear. He stated, I thought that no one could deceive or confuse the Nepali people, but now the people are confused. There is a trend of running after a crow when someone says it has taken your ear without even checking your own ear. Therefore, the country needs an awareness campaign now more than ever.

He questioned the trend of gaining cheap popularity through violent activities without any ideology, sacrifice, or contribution. He asked, What work did they do or what sacrifice did they make to become popular? I did not know that people could become popular by burning state property, private business establishments, and media equipment. He claimed that the algorithm and misuse of social media have fostered such distortions.

Furthermore, Oli warned the government against negligence in rescue and relief efforts for flood and landslide victims, urging it not to repeat past mistakes. Citing previous instances during the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli floods where government helicopters were misused and relief failed to reach in time, he demanded that rescue and rehabilitation work be carried out effectively this time.

While emphasizing that post-disaster reconstruction is the government’s primary responsibility, he directed all party leaders, cadres, and sister organizations to immediately engage in relief efforts.