Govt ready for criticism, pushes for social media regulation: Minister Gurung
Minister Gurung stated that the government welcomes criticisms that highlight areas of concern or failure, as long as they serve the national interest and promote democracy.
KATHMANDU: Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has said that the government is ready to accept criticism and rebuttals, encouraging constructive feedback rather than opposition for the sake of opposition.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the commencement of the Cinepa Film Shooting Studio construction at Baluwatar on Tuesday, Minister Gurung stated that the government welcomes criticisms that highlight areas of concern or failure, as long as they serve the national interest and promote democracy.
“Everyone is welcome to criticize us. We are prepared to accept rebuttals. Please tell us where we’ve gone wrong – in the interest of the nation, the sector, and the people,” said Minister Gurung. “However, a narrative of opposition for the sake of opposition is emerging, which is creating serious challenges in governance.”
He also mentioned that the Media Council Bill has reached its final stage and stressed the importance of regulating social media platforms operating in Nepal.
According to Gurung, these platforms must comply with Nepalese laws and the constitution.
“There are social networking platforms making huge profits. Those who use these platforms must abide by Nepal’s laws. If the Prime Minister, the President, and I must follow the law, why should these platforms be exempt?” he asked, arguing for stronger regulation.
The Minister further informed that a bill focused on the use, operation, and regulation of social media has already been tabled in Parliament and expressed hope that it will be passed soon.
He added that cybercrime prevention is the ministry’s top priority.
