Minister for Communication and Information Technology Gokul Prasad Baskota on Thursday vowed the government would not curtail the rights of the media.

Stating that the media is not just a mirror of the society, but a social leader, Baskota stressed on the need to make mainstream media accountable and credible.

The Minister also said the government would remain friendly with the mainstream media and urged not to suspect its intention considering nationwide revolution paved the way to the current political regime.

“The media is a crucial component of this political system. The government cannot see reflection of its work without the media,” Baskota said during his visit to the Kantipur Media Group (KMG) headquarters in Thapathali, Kathmandu on Thursday.

Minister Baskota, who is also the government spokesperson, stressed on the need to draw a line between mainstream media and social media to ensure citizens are not misled by information circulated by the latter.

Baskota said the government plans to introduce new communications law and social media policy.

“There should be clear division between mainstream media and social media which is why the policy is being introduced,” the minister said and urge stakeholders not to consider this move as stifling freedom of the Press.

In a different context, Baskota said that the countdown of the government, in real sense, has begun from mid-July given it will now get to enact its vision in line with policies, programmes and budget.

“The country has adopted a new system and the three-tier government is in place. It has just started functioning. The media, hence, should be patient,” said Baskota and added it will take at least a year for the government to deliver results.  

KMG Chairman and Managing Director Kailash Sirohiya urged the minister to incorporate voice of stakeholders while drafting the new act. Sirohiya said the media fraternity is hopes there would no intervention in the freedom of Press. “We are optimistic the government won’t curtail media rights,” he said.

KMG management escorted Minister Baskota on a tour of Kantipur and Kathmandu Post editorial newsrooms on Thursday. The minister spoke with senior editors and encouraged young journalists while interacting with them.