(CEHURDES/IFEX) – The following is a 17 January 2007 CEHURDES press release: CEHURDES concerned with interim constitution’s provisions Kathmandu, January 17, 2007 – The Center for Human Rights and Democratic Studies (CEHURDES) – a Kathmandu-based freedom of expression monitoring group – expresses its concerns over some provisions in the recently promulgated interim constitution that could […]
(CEHURDES/IFEX) – The following is a 17 January 2007 CEHURDES press release:
CEHURDES concerned with interim constitution’s provisions
Kathmandu, January 17, 2007 – The Center for Human Rights and Democratic Studies (CEHURDES) – a Kathmandu-based freedom of expression monitoring group – expresses its concerns over some provisions in the recently promulgated interim constitution that could undermine press freedom.
While welcoming the promulgation of the interim constitution as another key step in the current peace process, CEHURDES is concerned about some provisions that can be misused to circumvent press freedom.
CEHURDES is particularly concerned with the provision related to fundamental rights that allows the government to restrict publication or broadcast of news, views, editorial or electronic transmission, etc. by enacting laws. CEHURDES is concerned that the said provision could be misused by the authorities.
CEHURDES is also concerned about the provision (Article 15.4) that says: The government will not obstruct print, electronic or means of communication such as telephone except in accordance with law. CEHURDES is afraid this provision could also be misused to suppress freedom of expression as was seen during the royal regime.
CEHURDES welcomes the provision (Article 15.3) that no newspaper, magazine or printing house will be seized or their registration cancelled for publishing or printing news, views and editorials, etc.
CEHURDES is concerned about increasing incidences of attacks on media and media personnel by different vested interest groups under various pretexts. CEHURDES calls upon the government to investigate all such cases and take immediate measures to ensure the safety of media institutions and journalists.
