Nepal Intensifies Crackdown on Press Freedom, Journalists Face Arrest and New Restrictions
Kathmandu, Nepal – A growing wave of arrests, restrictive legislation, and online regulations is stifling press freedom in Nepal, raising concerns among journalists and international watchdogs. Recent actions by the government signal a coordinated effort to control media narratives and silence critical reporting,especially investigations into corruption.
The escalating pressure on the press comes as Nepal grapples with a delicate balance between democratic principles and government control. While the constitution guarantees freedom of the press, journalists are increasingly facing harassment, intimidation, and legal challenges for thier work. This crackdown threatens to undermine the vital role of a free press in holding power accountable and informing the public.
Journalist Youvraj kandel was recently arrested following the publication of reports detailing alleged corruption. His case is emblematic of a disturbing trend, according to press freedom advocates, who say cybercrime laws are being misused to target journalists.
Concerns are mounting over the proposed Media Council Bill, passed by the National Assembly in February and currently under review by a House of Representatives commitee.Critics fear the bill will weaken the existing Press Council and subject it to greater government oversight.
“The government simply wants to bring any kind of media under its control,” says [name redacted – source not fully identified in original text], a critic of the bill.
Further fueling anxieties, a July amendment to the Printing and Publication Act initially required online news outlets to register with local district administration offices, potentially granting local authorities control over online media. The requirement was suspended following widespread opposition from media organizations.
Nirmala Sharma, president of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, highlighted the challenges journalists face from multiple fronts.”Journalists are being targeted by both the state and non-state actors simply for reporting the news,” she stated. sharma also noted the role of misinformation circulating on social media in fueling public hostility towards the media, while emphasizing the importance of journalistic accuracy.
