Nirmala Sharma Discusses Press Freedom and Government Conflict

Kathmandu. Nirmala Sharma is a strong name in the Nepali journalism sector. Sharma, who has been active in Nepali media for a long time, is the first female president in the 70-year history of the Nepal Journalists Association. Sharma, who believes that journalism should be made dignified and responsible, is now at loggerheads with the government and the Journalists Association.

Why? Is the Journalists Association trying to do politics? This interview with Sharma focuses on these issues in Ratopati's 'Warpar'. Here is the edited part of the interview (detailed can be seen and heard in the video):

Is press freedom in danger now?

For the past two months, we have experienced the state structure trying to curtail media and freedom of expression. This is not just a problem for the media, it is an attack on the citizens' right to information.

Why are you dissatisfied with the advertising policy brought by the government?

The circular issued by the Prime Minister's Office has stopped providing government and public interest information to private media. This move is unconstitutional, contrary to the open economy, and it attacks the spirit of federalism. Information is the right of the people, which should not be stopped.

The government is not saying not to give information, but in the name of not giving money, it has curtailed the public's access to information.

Is it necessary to take to the streets?

The association has been forced to come to the streets as press freedom, freedom of expression, and citizens' rights are being curtailed. We submitted a memorandum to the Minister of Communications and the Prime Minister's Office, but the decision was not reversed. Like the 2062-63 movement, various professional organizations (PAPAD) have now united again. Because we feel the alarm bell of danger to democracy.

Or is the Journalists Association doing politics?

The association is not a fraternal organization of political parties. But the association itself is a civil advocacy organization. It is our duty to bring democracy and the constitution back on track. We played a role in saving democracy even during the elections. Now we are not against the government, but in favor of citizens' rights.

Attacks on journalists are increasing, why does the association seem soft on this?

Not all attacks are based on writing news; some involve other interests. We study every incident. We have formed mission teams in some cases, investigated, and taken initiatives to ensure justice for the victims.

Why is the association silent when the media spreads wrong information or violates the code of conduct?

I am also an ex-officio member of the Press Council. Clarifications are being sought from those who violate the code of conduct. We are continuously orienting journalists to advocate for responsible journalism. Journalists should be prompt in correcting mistakes. However, it is not suitable for a democratic government to shut down an entire media house or impose a blockade on information just because there is corruption or a mistake.

There are complaints of lack of transparency and good governance within the association?

Our organization is a large institution with more than 13,000 journalists, including members and non-members. In terms of resources, we do not have any large projects; we run on membership fees. We office bearers are working as full-time volunteers. There is no room for corruption here. I am always clear about transparency.

What are your demands from the government?

We are not asking for anything. It is enough if the government strictly adheres to the rights written in the constitution. It should not curb press freedom, freedom of expression, and the citizens' right to information. Media should not be seen as an adversary but as a partner in establishing good governance.

How long will the protest continue?

We are always open to dialogue. But as long as the government does not adopt democratic methods and continues to curtail freedom of expression, our struggle will continue. We will strengthen our issues by holding district gatherings across the country and will not compromise with anyone.

Video/Photo: Manoj Khadka, Ayush Dhami/Ratopati