Gorkhapatra Daily is now free to report independently and without government interference: PM Oli

Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that Gorkhapatra Daily is now free to report independently and without government interference, contrasting its present state with its constrained past under the Rana and monarchical regimes.

Speaking at a special event marking the 125th anniversary of Gorkhapatra Daily, Prime Minister Oli praised the publication’s resilience over the decades and highlighted its evolution through various political systems and social upheavals.

“Gorkhapatra has seen many ups and downs. It has endured and adapted. There was a time when even writing an editorial was difficult. But today, there is no government pressure — not even from the Prime Minister. You are free to write what your conscience sees, even what Brahma saw,” PM Oli remarked.

He extended his congratulations and best wishes to the Gorkhapatra team, readers, and intellectual community associated with Nepal’s oldest newspaper.

Prime Minister Oli acknowledged the transformative impact of technology and artificial intelligence, emphasizing that although digital adaptation is gradual, Gorkhapatra is progressing with the times.

Reflecting on its historical role, PM Oli noted that Gorkhapatra has witnessed and documented 104 years of political turbulence, from palace intrigues and family disputes to the struggle between the Ranas and monarchs.

He underscored the newspaper’s contribution in raising awareness during the Panchayat era, including questioning whether the Rana regime should be regarded as a monarchy or a separate world order.

On this commemorative occasion, PM Oli also paid tribute to the warriors who fought for political change in Nepal, acknowledging Gorkhapatra’s coverage of their struggles and sacrifices.