In the bill, a provision has been made to punish and fine journalists up to one and a half lakh rupees on the basis of writing news.
Journalists of Biratnagar staged a sit-in and demonstration in front of the Koshi State Assembly on Friday against the Mass Media Bill submitted by the Koshi State Government in the State Assembly.
In this demonstration organized by Nepal Journalist Federation Koshi Province Committee, the journalists have demanded to cancel the provision of penalties and fines for journalists in the bill and announced that the protest will continue. Earlier, on Thursday too, they staged a dharna in front of the office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers of Koshi Province with similar demands.
In the bill submitted by the provincial government in the provincial assembly on August 6, there is a provision to punish and fine journalists up to one and a half lakh rupees for writing news. Approved by the Cabinet on August 4 was passed by the Justice Administration and Legislation Committee.
President of Nepal Journalist Federation Koshi Province Bharat Khadka, Advisor Lilabalbh Ghimire, General Secretary Hima Chamjung, Vice President of Press Center Vivek Gautam and Morang President Sushila Pathak said that the protest will continue until the provisions of punishment in the bill are repealed.
Earlier, the Chief Minister of Koshi Province, Hikmat Kumar Karki, had submitted a memorandum and informed about the provision in the bill to restrict journalists.
