Media role vital for full implementation of statute: Minister Basnet

Rupandehi ( Tilottama) - Minister for Information and Communications Mohan Bahadur Basnet has said the government was trying to bring the main opposition CPN (UML) on board regarding the constitution amendment issue.

Addressing the 12th anniversary function of Butwal-based Buddha Community Television Saturday, the Information Minister said the government was making effort to convince the main opposition protesting against the constitution amendment proposal to accept the document, bearing in mind the country's current necessity.

He claimed that the local-level election scheduled for upcoming September 18 would not be halted under any condition.

The constitution has guaranteed the people's Right to Information and the media role is vital for the full implementation of such right, according to the Minister.

He added that he was personally and officially committed towards the further development of information and communications sector. "The government is committal to meet all requirements for timely completion of the under-construction Gautam Buddha International Airport based in Bhairahawa."

On the occasion, Nepali Congress Rupandehi President Abdul Rajjaq urged the government to encourage journalism field which had a significant contribution to make the people's movements launched for political changes in different times successful.

Lawmaker Dr Krishna Bahadur Chhantyal called on journalists to do their duty freely and fairly.

On the occasion, journalist Dilip Bhattarai was honoured with the 'Ganeshman Memorial Gautam Buddha Peace Journalism Award' instituted by the television. The award carries a purse of Rs 5,000.