Nepali journalists protest government policy excluding private media from information

In Jhapa, Nirmala Sharma, the central president of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, has declared that the government’s policy circular to exclude private media from government information and advertisements is entirely unconstitutional. She emphasized that the federation’s movement will continue to protect democracy and citizens’ rights.

Speaking at the 10th anniversary and magazine launch of ‘Ijalas Daily’ in Birtamod on Monday, Sharma stated that a nationwide storm of protests has already erupted against the government’s move to restrict freedom of expression, and it will not stop until the issue is rectified.

Sharma accused the latest circular from the Prime Minister’s Office of undermining the core essence of federalism guaranteed by the constitution. She highlighted that while the federal, provincial, and local governments have their own jurisdictions, the central government is encroaching on and reducing lower-level authorities through such circulars. She urged all citizens to unite against this kind of authoritarianism.

Fourth Phase of the Movement: Memorandum to the Prime Minister from All 77 Districts

In response to the government’s ‘unconstitutional’ actions, the federation has announced the fourth phase of its movement, creating nationwide pressure. As part of this movement, on Monday, memorandums signed by the federation’s 127 branches across the country were submitted to the Prime Minister via the chief district officers of all 77 districts.

In Jhapa, while handing over the memorandum to the chief district officer, Sharma remarked that this movement is not just for journalists but is a collective movement for the protection of citizens’ rights, democracy, and freedom of expression. She asserted that the federation will always be at the forefront against any attempts by the state or non-state actors to curtail citizens’ rights.

During the program, Sharma expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown by civil society, human rights activists, legal professionals, employees, and businesspersons in the federation’s signature campaign. She noted that the chief district officers have also committed to taking the issue seriously and advocating for its implementation at the central level. She warned that the movement would intensify if the government does not amend its decisions.