Newly Elected National Assembly Vice-Chair Bhandari Calls for Stricter Cyberbullying Laws

Kathmandu. Newly elected National Assembly Vice-Chair Lila Kumari Bhandari has assumed office. Immediately after taking the oath of office, she arrived at her office in Singha Durbar to begin her duties. Speaking to journalists after assuming office, she highlighted the need for stringent legal provisions against character assassination (cyberbullying) targeting women on social media.

Bhandari expressed concern over the growing criminal activities that damage women's reputation and social standing. Stating that cyberattacks against women on social media are taking a severe form, she emphasized the need for immediate legal intervention through coordination between the government and stakeholders. 

She remarked that it is extremely unfortunate that even lawmakers are forced to approach the police cyber bureau in search of justice due to becoming victims of cybercrime. She stated that all parties must unite to control cybercrime to build a civilized and dignified society.

'Slitting a throat is not the only crime. The way people are being negatively targeted to the point where they cannot live in society, especially the character assassination affecting the honor, reputation, and social conduct of women,' she said while assuming office, 'The way cyberbullying is being used with the intent to destroy a woman's life by assassinating her character must now be stopped through legal means.'

She expressed confidence that the government would soon take steps to control criminal activities where offensive language is used to attack women's character. She recalled that if society is to be made civilized, such distortions must be ended through law, and voices are being raised loudly both inside and outside Parliament on this issue.

Additionally, newly elected Vice-Chair Bhandari stated that she would perform her duties impartially, without any bias or prejudice. She also expressed her commitment to working while upholding the dignity of the National Assembly and the parliamentary system as a whole.