In a press statement issued on Tuesday, TBN took exception to the unexpected termination of the Avenues TV’s licence by the Ministry of Information and Communications on May 21.

“TBN strongly opposes the irresponsible act of violating the rights of press freedom and freedom of expression, obstructing the broadcast, terrorising media and discouraging the huge investment and employment in media sector,” read a press statement issued by TBN Vice-president Ganesh Kumar Aggrawal.

The TBN, in the statement, demanded the government and the concerned stakeholders to immediately roll back such undemocratic decision and create an environment conducive for smooth operation of the media.

TBN concluded that it is unfortunate that the government, instead of providing security and relief to the media houses at this time of national crisis created by the recent deadly earthquake, issued an ill-intentioned letter.

TBN stated that the constitution of Nepal has enshrined the provision to allow any media houses to broadcast and publish news without any hindrance.