KATHMANDU: Minister for Information and Communications, Dr Bikram Timilsina, has said the ministry was for constructive suggestions from the stakeholders to make journalism and media further strong, responsible and convincing.
“Government is advancing process to draft laws in various sectors, so stakeholders’ suggestions will be given utmost priority for it,” Minister Dr Timilsina said during a meeting he had with Online Journalists’ Association (OJA) at the ministry on Wednesday.
The Minister shared that the ministry had begun discussions on the Mass Media Bill, which will be forwarded to Cabinet after receiving inputs. Even the Media Council Bill is also in the lineup after discussions with stakeholders.
Proper legal arrangements are essential in view of rapid rise in use of digital media, so the provisions on social media should pay heed to timely concerns, he reminded. The Minister underlined the urgency of accountability of social media. Legal measures will be put in place to control rising trend of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech.
Minister Timilsina made it clear that the government would not formulate policies and laws that limit journalism. However, making journalism more responsible and strong is government’s priority. If the journalism is strong, it can keep a close watch on government activities. So, the government does not make any policy, interfering in journalism, he reiterated.
The OJA was also asked to furnish constructive suggestions to such bid of government.
The OJA officials on the occasion demanded the government that even the online media should be provided equal public welfare advertisements as enjoyed by the broadcast and print media. Discriminatory treatment should not be in place, they added.
The government was also suggested conducting the capacity development programmes for journalists, enhancing digital literacy, and ensuring in-depth study and homework while preparing law and policies related to digital journalism.
The discussion dwelt on policy reforms in the media sector, management of digital media, elimination of malpractices in journalism and creation of a responsible media ecosystem.
