A loser’s desperate game

Editorial

K P Sharma Oli is at times known for his acts of courage and boldness. But such acts , propelled by ego , and not for larger goods, will make the person a ruthless gambler.

There is no doubt that a state needs be stronger and full of authorities to deliver , but in a democracy that authority must be exercised diligently, and with full accountability. The government’s concern that all social media and online operating in Nepal must abide by the law of the land is both understandable and justifiable. But Oli and the present government had other clear sinister designs:. They wanted to control social media , Get access to data of its users in one or the other and punish them for ‘ objectionable’ acts. Government run and led by people so intolerant would decide what is objectionable and punishable.

Shame Mr Oli, Shame Mr Sher Bahadur Deuba and the parties and forces you lead. The whimsical decision has much larger implication: it will adversely affect digital business and applications . It will discourage thriving IT temperament and worse, the rulers of the state will be seen as illiterate gang that think their authoritarian will and ambition is stronger than the all power of social media.

Social media and online are not above the law and must abide by the rule of the state, but they also have a responsibility not to be deliberate partner in the crime that rulers of a particular state want to commit , by allowing the use of social media to crush criticism, dissent and healthy debates. Oli is already a loser and is fast building the high way of his ignominious exit through such silly act.

Oli must understand and realize at the earliest that scientific innovation. Technology and their creation— social media- will outlive and demolish his totalitarian ambition.