KATHMANDU: The umbrella body of YouTubers, the Online TV Journalists Association, has launched protests against the government’s decision to shut down social media platforms.
Accusing the government of “kicking them in the stomach,” online TV journalists staged a demonstration at Maitighar Mandala on Sunday afternoon. Nepal is estimated to have more than 10,000 online TV channels, with over 1,000 affiliated with the association.
Association chair Jivan Bhandari said members will now shut down offices and halt camera work as part of their protest. “The government has not only curtailed freedom of expression but also taken away our livelihood,” he said. “By blaming social media for spreading distortion, the government is simply trying to cover up its own misconduct. We strongly oppose this move.”
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