Home ministry reverses course on media monitoring amidst public outcry
KATHMANDU/March 22: On March 21, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) of Nepal has reversed its decision to establish ‘desks’ at the district police and administrative offices to monitor online news portals and social media platforms following widespread criticism. The initial move on March 19, which aimed to monitor digital media content, faced intense disapproval from various quarters, including media rights organizations and civil society groups, who argued that it threatened freedom of expression and undermined democratic principles.
“The decision to withdraw the monitoring plan signifies a recognition of the concerns raised by the public and a commitment to upholding the values of free speech and open discourse in the digital sphere,” said Laxman Datt Pant, Chairperson of Media Action Nepal. Adding that the journalistic regulation in Nepal falls under the jurisdiction of the Press Council Nepal (PCN), Pant urged the Ministry to remain sensitive to issues beyond its jurisdictional scope and to respect the fundamental rights to freedom of expression.
Earlier, on March 19, 2024, the Ministry issued a directive to 77 District Administration Offices (DAOs) across the country, instructing Chief District Officers (CDOs) to establish ‘desks’ at the district police and administrative offices to monitor online news portals, social media platforms including Facebook and X, as well as print media, particularly when perceived to challenge the law and order situation.
Featured pic : MoHA press statement on the reversed decision
