Journos, professionals take out rally against the new media law
Hundreds of journalists and professionals took out a rally in the capital, Kathmandu, protesting the new media law.
Organised by Professionals for Peace and Democracy (PAPAD), hundreds of journalists, lawyers, university teachers, doctors, engineers, writers and civil society activists took part in the rally demanding immediate withdrawal of the ordinance that amends half a dozen media related laws. The government had introduced the law early this month—just ahead of the Dashain holidays.
Talking to Nepalnews, acting president of the Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) Shiva Gaule said they had no other option than to take to streets as the government was trying to gag the media by introducing harsh laws. He said the FNJ would also knock the door of the court challenging the ordinance.
The rally started from New Baneswore, in front of the Birendra International Convention Centre (BICC) and ended in a corner meeting at Maitighar Mandala. Representatives of various professional organizations addressed the meeting and demanded immediate withdrawal of the ordinance.
The new media law—that will last for only six months unless re-promulgated—has banned criticism of the king and royal family members and broadcast of news over the FM radio stations. The law has also raised the fine journalists and media publishers in defamation case to Rs 500,000 or two years in imprisonment or both.
Media activists said the government has introduced the new law to suppress all kind of opposition to the royal regime.
The authorities, however, say the law had to be introduced to make the media dignified and responsible. nepalnews.com by October 21 05
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