SURKHET: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has stated that the government has not interfered with press freedom, but that misuse of media—particularly social media—must be addressed.
Speaking at a program organized in Surkhet today, Minister Gurung said the Social Media Regulation Bill has been misunderstood by some segments of society.
He emphasized that while freedom of the press is important, increasing anarchy and disorder in its name must be curbed. “Anarchy and indiscipline have increased in the name of press freedom in our country,” he said. “To address this, we are preparing a new mass media bill.”
Gurung added that the draft of the social media regulation bill is currently in progress and that it will be finalized soon. He stressed that media outlets should not engage in activities that incite racial or social disharmony.
Highlighting the surge in cybercrime, the Minister said that over 40,000 complaints have been registered due to misuse of online platforms.
“No one has the right to spread confusion in society in the name of social media use or freedom of expression,” he said.
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