Opinion | Predatory script of Panchayat in the post-truth republic
Summary
The post-truth government of Prime Minister Balendra Shah enforces media control resembling the 1960s Panchayat regime, threatening free press and ethnic representation in Nepal.
Key Points
- The government of Prime Minister Balendra Shah is following a populist, authoritarian script similar to the 1960s Panchayat regime.
- Orders were issued directing government entities to channel advertisements exclusively through state-owned media, undermining free press.
- This move threatens independent journalists, especially those reporting in rural areas who rely on government advertising revenue to sustain operations.
- Media conglomerates display concern about the government's antagonism towards independent journalism but remain cautious in their response.
