Nepali Times
From The Nepali Press
"FM stations aren’t allowed to broadcast news even in the most democratic countries"



The government has done a couple of important things in the last five months. It has been moving ahead with the objective of liberating Nepali society from terrorist activities and establishing peace in the country. We have also made the administration more efficient. The RCCC has been formed and actions taken have been made public. The people have begun to receive government services and facilities. After the historic royal move of February First, the country is moving in a positive direction. The government is doing its best to fulfil the desire of His Majesty.

Local elections will be held soon because His Majesty has clearly stated it in his speech. The election commission is an independent body and the government is ready to extend any cooperation the commission would need. Polls would be free and fair, everybody should be assured about that. The political parties need to move ahead according to the people's sentiments. In democracy, people are centre stage. Since election is the best medium for the people to express their opinions, politics will lag behind if they remain detached from the elections. If they believe in democracy and wish to see the beginning of a democratic process, they will have to take part in the elections. They have no alternative.

If talks about an alliance between the seven political parties and the Maoists is just to scare the government, the idea will not work. It must be remembered that the same political parties declared the Maoists as 'terrorists' when they were in power. Interpol too has issued a red corner notice against the Maoists. I do not believe that the parties will move ahead with such a group. If they do, it will be very unfortunate for them.

We have been conducting studies on ways to make the communication sector effective. The FNJ has alleged that the government is making amendments in the broadcasting law. I am the communication minister and I am saying that the issue is still under discussion. It has not been finalised.

One needs to be clear about the fact that FM radios never had the permission to broadcast news. FM stations aren't allowed to broadcast news even in the most democratic countries. Even in neighbouring India, the government doesn't allow FM stations to air news. So it is wrong to ask us to allow news on FM here.


LATEST ISSUE
638
(11 JAN 2013 - 17 JAN 2013)


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