FNJ Objects to Social Networking Sites Bill, Cites Press Freedom Concerns
Hamrakura
Published 2025 Jan 30 Thursday
Kathmandu: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has strongly objected to certain provisions in the proposed bill on the Operation, Use, and Regulation of Social Networking Sites, citing threats to press freedom and freedom of expression.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, FNJ criticized the government for failing to consult stakeholders, including journalists, before introducing the bill in parliament. The organization expressed serious concerns over provisions that could undermine fundamental rights and democratic norms.
FNJ has urged the government and federal parliament to amend the bill in line with human rights principles, constitutional guarantees, and established press freedom practices. It emphasized the need for extensive discussions with relevant stakeholders before moving forward with the legislation.
The journalists' federation also warned that any law restricting press freedom and freedom of expression would be unacceptable and called for immediate revisions to the bill’s restrictive provisions.
