Democracy inseparable from free and impartial journalism: President Paudel

Kathmandu:  President Ram Chandra Paudel has emphasized that democracy is incomplete without free, impartial, and independent journalism, highlighting the crucial role the Nepali media has played in the country’s political, social, and cultural transformations.

Speaking at the Senior Journalist Honors and National Journalism Awards ceremony organized by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology on the occasion of National Journalism Day, President Paudel described journalism as a powerful force for change and a key pillar in nation-building.

“Democracy is the foundation for a free and neutral press,” said President Paudel, “and without such journalism, democracy itself cannot be imagined.”

He expressed concern over threats to journalists’ safety, stating that no one should feel insecure for simply reporting the truth. He called for a collective commitment to creating a secure and enabling environment for journalism.

Addressing the evolving challenges posed by the rise of social media and citizen journalism, President Paudel acknowledged the increased risk of misinformation and the spread of false narratives. Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in the Nepali press to uphold ethical standards and meet the demands of a rapidly changing media landscape.

President Paudel also voiced optimism that the media would continue to play an active role in advancing the federal democratic republic and meeting the people’s aspirations for good governance, development, and prosperity.

On the occasion, the Senior Journalist Award 2081 was presented to Bipul Pokharel, former President of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, and Ganesh Basnet, former President of Press Chautari Nepal.

The National Journalism Award 2081 was awarded to six outstanding journalists: Bimal Gautam from Baglung, Dipendra Shrestha from Kaski, Logshari Kunwar from Kailali, Dipendra Bantawa from Sankhuwasabha, Dilliram Khatiwada from Udayapur, and Sagar Pandit from Tanahun.