KATHMANDU: It has been found that 17 news media outlets have disseminated content in contravention with the election code of conduct, said Press Council Nepal.

The violations were noted during Press Council’s election-focused monitoring of the code of conduct.

In the press release issued by the Council today, according to the quantitative findings till 5 pm of November 3, two print media, two television and 13 online media have circulated news and news-materials against the election code of conduct.

Out of these news media, four media outlets have been instructed, the attention of two have been drawn, six have been warned and clarification has been sought from four. Likewise, the Council has written to the Nepal Telecommunication Authority to ban dissemination of content from two news portals, whose registration could not be traced in the country.

“During the monitoring, it was found that in some media, one-sided advocacy of political parties and candidates, favoritism about a political party, candidate in the same content, and negative influence on someone and analysis without factual confirmation. In this context, all the media are requested to be aware of such coverage,” read the statement.

Similarly, attention of the media has been drawn not to give place to the hateful expressions that may be expressed towards one or the other party and the candidates during campaigning by the political party.

Similarly, the Council points out that balance might be lost as the media try to give space to political parties’ public meetings/gatherings that are these days often broadcast live.

The Council also reminds one and all that section 25(f) of the Election Code of Conduct, 2079, has prohibited to publish, broadcast or transmit any content using electronic media such as SMS, Facebook, Messenger, Twitter, Viber, YouTube, Instagram, online, and such content on social media in favor or against someone.

Clarifying that the Press Council is always active and vigilant in protecting and promoting the freedom of press, as the media play a special role to make the election successful, like the various agencies of the state, the Council calls upon all journalists and media to disseminate news in a healthy, clean, free, dignified and balanced manner.