KATHMANDU, May 20: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr. Bikram Timilsina has said the government has no intention of controlling the press and remains fully committed to press freedom.
Responding to lawmakers’ questions related to his ministry during meetings of the House of Representatives, Minister Timilsina said freedom of the press is guaranteed by the constitution and cannot be curtailed.
“Press freedom is a constitutional right. No one can suppress this right today, tomorrow, or in the future,” he said. “However, press freedom does not mean unrestricted liberty. The media must uphold its dignity and professional boundaries.”
Govt has no intention of curtailing press freedom: Banskota
He added that as long as the media maintains professional ethics and responsibility, the government would have no reason to interfere.
Timilsina also said the government is committed to strengthening institutions such as the Press Council Nepal and the Film Censorship Board.
The minister further assured lawmakers that suggestions and concerns related to his ministry regarding the government’s policies, programmes, and budget priorities would be taken seriously.
