Press Freedom Essential for Democracy, Human Rights: NHRC Member

Kathmandu. National Human Rights Commission member Manoj Duwadi has stated that democracy and human rights cannot be imagined without press freedom and freedom of expression. Participating in a demonstration organized on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, member Duwadi mentioned that a compelling situation has arisen in Nepal where press freedom must be celebrated not only as a festival but also as a movement for the protection of rights.

Commission member Duwadi claimed that freedom of expression is the biggest tool of human rights. Expressing concern and worry that some recent steps by the government could harm press freedom, he said the commission is serious and concerned about this issue. He argued that although the nature of journalism has changed with the development of technology, the problem has worsened due to the lack of corresponding legal provisions. Member Duwadi objected to the 'Electronic Transactions Act, 2063' which is 19-20 years old, being used in a discriminatory and selective manner against journalists. 

Recalling the events of Bhadra 23 and 24 last year, he said that the ban imposed on social media at that time was a brutal attack on freedom of expression. He commented that curtailing rights merely on the basis of administrative or ministerial orders without prevailing law is an autocratic style. He informed that the study committee formed by the commission regarding the incident has already submitted its report. 

Expressing dissatisfaction with the government's indifference to the implementation of the commission's recommendations, he emphasized the need for common solidarity among the Nepal Bar Association, journalists, and human rights defenders to build a human rights-friendly country. He also expressed the commission's commitment to always stand with the movement for press freedom and the rights of journalists.