With the certification of the bill, the way has now been cleared for its implementation as an Act. The Act has made provision to bring FM radio, online media and newspapers operating within the province under the scope of registration and listing.
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The Koshi Province Mass Media Bill, 2082 has been certified. Koshi Province Chief Parshuram Khapung certified the bill on Monday.
The bill, passed by the Koshi Province Assembly on 23 Poush 2082, has been certified in accordance with Article 2010, Clause (2) of the Constitution of Nepal. A notification was issued in this regard on Monday.
With the certification of the bill, the way for the implementation of this bill as an act has now been cleared. The act has made provision to bring FM radio, online media and newspapers operating within the province under the scope of registration and listing. It aims to make the operation of media systematic and transparent.
The act has set clear criteria for the publication/broadcast of news material. The publication of unverified, misleading or hateful material has been banned, and there is a provision to be aware of issues that affect social harmony. In addition, special responsibility has been determined for the publication of material related to children, women and sensitive groups.
The act also includes the rights and duties of journalists. While ensuring the right to gather news and protect sources, the obligation to conduct journalism based on facts and in accordance with the code of conduct has also been clarified. The act also covers issues related to transparency in media ownership, a clear separation between advertising and news, and the professional safety of journalists.
Similarly, there is a provision to form a regulatory mechanism at the provincial level for the registration, monitoring, and complaint management of media outlets. If a complaint is received against news or content, there is a provision to investigate and correct it, apologize, or impose punishment/fine if necessary. In cases of serious violations, the act also mentions the provision of suspension or revocation of the license.
Although the act mentions protecting freedom of expression, it emphasizes responsible journalism in accordance with the law.
