Misuse of press cards will lead to action: Chair Basnet

KATHMANDU: Chair Balkrishna Basnet of the Press Council Nepal has pledged to take legal action against journalists who misuse their press cards.

Speaking at a media orientation program organized by the Press Council Nepal for students of mass communication, Basnet emphasized that misuse of press cards would be met with the highest level of scrutiny and consequences.

Basnet stressed that press identification cards, which are meant to facilitate creative work rather than intimidate or threaten the public, must be used responsibly.

He noted a rise in complaints about the misuse of press passes and assured that investigations are underway to address these concerns.

He also highlighted the need for media literacy to tackle the confusion and problems created by news content disseminated through social media and traditional media.

Basnet pointed out that media literacy is not only crucial for journalists and media organizations but also for society as a whole, given the influence of information technology.

The Press Council has been working to regulate YouTube and other digital platforms by establishing guidelines and necessary regulations.

Basnet mentioned that actions against those who misuse press cards, such as threatening, engaging in ‘bargaining’, or other misconduct, include revoking their press identification, mandating attendance in ethics training, placing them on a blacklist, stopping their advertising, and cooperating with relevant authorities for cyber and other criminal investigations.

Senior Administrative Officer Deepak Khanal also provided information to the students about the Council’s functions, duties, rights, and organizational structure during the event.