Koshi Province Passes Mass Communication Bill Amidst Debate Over Media Regulation

Biratnagar. On Chaitra 18, the federal government led by Balendra Shah issued a circular directing all government agencies to publish and broadcast notices exclusively through state-owned media outlets. The directive aimed to ensure fiscal discipline, transparency, and the promotion of government-owned media such as Gorkhapatra Sansthan, Radio Nepal, and Nepal Television.

However, the 'Mass Communication Bill' passed by the Koshi Province Assembly on Monday establishes a legal framework requiring provincial government notices and advertisements to be provided to local media outlets. Sections 40 and 42 prioritize small-scale, local, and mother-tongue media for public welfare advertisements, ensuring proportional distribution.