PM Kp Oli promises to uphold social media rights and combat chaos

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has promised that social media rights will not be violated by the proposed Social Media Bill, stressing that liberties will not be restricted “even by an inch.”

Prime Minister Oli emphasized the need for social media regulation to stop anarchic actions during his remarks at the International Conference on Digital Crimes, which began in Kathmandu on Thursday. He maintained that social harmony depends on responsible usage.

His comments are in the midst of criticism from proponents of free speech, who fear that the Social Media Bill could erode freedom of expression by trying to punish infractions. Prime Minister Oli responded by making it clear that the law attempts to prevent abuse without jeopardizing democratic rights. He further emphasized that actions like character assassination, defamation, and disseminating false information that encourage tyranny, anarchy, and societal unrest will not be accepted.

Prime Minister Oli reaffirmed the government’s will to address problems such as hate politics, defamatory character assaults, and disinformation, which he claimed could destroy companies, split families, and sow doubt and distrust. He declared, “Such actions should not be left unchecked,” emphasizing the significance of upholding social order and shielding people from danger when they are online.

In support of the necessity for new social media laws, the prime minister claimed that those who opposed the regulation of digital crimes were making “a baseless argument in itself.” According to the proposed bill, social media companies must need government license before they can operate, and non-compliance might result in fines of up to Rs 10 million. Users who are found guilty of disseminating false material may also be fined up to Rs 1.5 million and imprisoned for up to five years.

According to the law, social media platforms are online communities that enable communication via electronic channels, such as blogs, websites, and applications. It also lists a number of infractions that carry serious consequences, especially for individuals who use fictitious identities to disseminate inaccurate or deceptive information.

The Bill has generated a lot of discussion and opposition in spite of the government’s assurances. Critics contend that although social media content regulation may be required, the existing laws may punish infractions and restrict citizens’ rights, endangering democratic liberties.

Advocates for free speech have demanded that the law be withdrawn, claiming that it goes against the spirit of the constitution and may limit the amount of space available for public discussion.