KATHMANDU: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has objected to some provisions of the bill related to Operation, Use and Regulation of Social Networking Sites registered in the parliament.

The FNJ says, “It seriously expresses disagreement and objection to the bill forwarded by the government incorporating some provisions capable to hamper the press freedom and freedom of expression.” The umbrella organization of the journalists worried why the consultation and discussion were not held with stakeholders including FNJ before registering the bill in the parliament.

Issuing a press statement on Wednesday, the FNJ urged the government and federal parliament to forward the bill as per the human rights, norms and values of press freedom and freedom of expression, constitutional provisions and prevailing practice. Extensive discussion with the bodies concerned is equally imperative, the FNJ reminded.

It also sought correction in the provisions that curtail press freedom and freedom of expression. The FNJ drew the attention of the bodies concerned, saying any law curtailing the press freedom and freedom of expression would be unacceptable.