Opposition MPs criticize film bill, call it unfederal & controlling
KATHMANDU: Opposition lawmakers have strongly criticized the government’s proposed film-related bill, arguing that it is not aligned with federal principles and appears to centralize excessive power in the federal government.
During Wednesday’s session of the House of Representatives, lawmakers from the opposition parties—including the Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), and the Rastriya Prajatantra Party—participated in the theoretical discussion on the film bill and raised concerns that the legislation aims to control rather than support the film industry.
Nepali Congress MP Rekha Kumari Yadav argued that the bill does not reflect the spirit of federalism, claiming that key powers such as policy formulation, licensing, standards, inspection, and penalties are all concentrated at the federal level, leaving provinces with minimal responsibilities.
CPN (UML) MP Padma Kumari Aryal emphasized that the film sector should not promote social disharmony and urged the government to ensure that cinema contributes positively to culture and national values. She also stressed that the Film Development Board should not remain merely a formal body but be made more effective and meaningful.
From the Shram Sanskriti Party, MP Aryan Rai expressed concern that the bill does not prioritize the film industry adequately. He called for stronger legal provisions to ensure investment recovery in language and cultural films and suggested that experienced artists should lead investigative or reform committees in the sector.
Rastriya Prajatantra Party MP Sarawati Lama accused the government of attempting to control the film industry instead of supporting it. She argued that cinema should be viewed as an important sector linked to the national economy, employment, and cultural identity, and called for policies focused on cooperation, protection, and promotion rather than regulation alone.
On the ruling side, Rastriya Swatantra Party MP Jagdish Kharel said the government should formally recognize the film industry as an independent industry. He also proposed that the Chairperson of the Film Development Board be appointed through open competition and stressed the need for full autonomy of the board.
Former Communications Minister Kharel further added that the Film Development Board should be made fully autonomous to ensure effective governance and development of the sector.
