Politicized media hinders freedom in Nepal

Kathmandu, Nepal, April 06 — In Nepal, investment in media has been encouraged through the guarantee that they will not be forcefully closed for any reason, political or otherwise, by the government. Hence, the number of newspapers, magazines, TV stations and FM radio stations has increased in Nepal, through both foreign and domestic investments. Apart from commercial media, Nepal also has political media, that is, media financed and run by various political parties and individual politicians. And of course, government-run media, as before, also exists. Each of these types of media provides news and opinion, reflecting the respective controller's or investor's interests.

The diversity of media sources provides different and, at times, opposing messages, enabling the consumer to have more choices. To some extent, skepticism among consumers of the news and opinion that is provided has also been discerned, especially due to partisan bias in the content.

Intentional acts of defamation and individual character assassination by some media sources also tend to not be checked, due to fact that litigation is costly and lengthy. Media may be able to play that checking role if and when freedom is achieved. But currently in Nepal, politicized media – not commercial and independent media − seems to be more of a hindrance in achieving a national consensus leading to democracy.

A scholar, Dr. Raman, told me, “As I understand, the enhanced capacity of media is necessary in order to initiate changes in the existing political situation in Nepal. A nation divided, dependent, and with dubious politicians is not in any position to recommend such changes. Of course, its concerned citizens can try to use the 'weapons of the weak' through appeals for justice, fairness, and redress from the adverse effects of politics, which politicians would have to listen to in order to keep favorable world opinion. And, in the long run, collective efforts to reduce vulnerability must be made, as well as the removal of other national deficiencies.

“In a protracted conflict of this kind, both sides use any and all means at their disposal. These means are not limited to arms, but also include infiltration into civil organizations and the media to create favorable public and international opinion. Part of the game is also to use infiltration of organizations or media, through monetary incentives, blackmail, or threats, to create dissension and discord within the enemy camp or among those who may make an alliance to take a stand against one's side.

“Negotiation and dialogue can also be tactically used in one's favor to buy time to strengthen one’s logistical and financial capabilities, as well as elevating one's legitimacy to win.”

He further said, "Some media seem to accept things at face value. As it is said, ‘The road to hell is paved with good intentions.’ So, people with influence may make recommendations or give advice, but it is we who have to suffer the consequences of such advice. This can also apply to politics. In any case, artificial freedom that is externally imposed is not genuine and may not be sustainable.

“The time factor is very important. The time for honest negotiation can only arrive when the warring factions realize the futility of such wars. Many people have already said this many times. No warring side ever stops to think, until it confronts formidable opposition and resistance, which forces it to look for alternative solutions.”

Raman said, "The rapid expansion of the operation area of violent Nepali groups has been attributed to the fact that they have not met any serious resistance, ideological or otherwise. Hence, they have no reason to doubt their dogmas, activities, strategies, and tactics. However, the major political parties have not yet tried to resist the violence, either ideologically or by mobilizing the people or by assisting the communities that have begun to resist the violent groups.

“An opportune time and condition can only come about when formidable resistance to such groups comes from all sides from the media and when their leaders are made to realize the futility of using violence. The role of the international community could be in facilitating, at all levels, the emergence of such an opportune time and condition. Then, and only then, will intervention by the international community be productive and meaningful.”