Gorakhapatra is free to write what it sees with its conscience: PM Oli

Kathmandu, May 7: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the Gorakhapatra publication is free to write what its conscience has seen as there is no interference from the rulers like during the autocratic period.     

Addressing a programme organised today by the Gorakhapatra Corporation on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the publication of Gorakhapatra vernacular national daily, he said the Gorakhapatra has contributed to the nation as a witness to many events in history. He recalled that the publication had started with the proclamation – 'Sarbe bhawantu sukhina, sarbe santu niramaya…', the present version of the national slogan of 'Sambriddh Nepal, Sukhi Nepali or Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali' that the government has adopted.     

"During the rule of the Ranas and the monarchy, the situation was such that not even an anti-ruler sign/symbol could be printed. We are free to do that now. The Prime Minister does not give any coercion, instruction or indication these days. You are free to write anything as per your conscience," the PM said.     

As he said, in the past Gorakhapatra was always tormented by the 'sword of autocracy', now it is free. "It has been adhering to its loyalty to the government, the country and the people. I appreciate its contribution to the country's civilization and culture as well as to the development of the economy and the Nepali language,” he added.     

Stating that Gorakhapatra has truly served the entire society, the PM stressed the need for it to face the challenge the media with populist tendencies have posed before it.     

PM Oli further said: "Gorakhapatra will have to confront with the media which has the tendency to make negative comments anyway, indulge in character assassination using artificial intelligence, to spread a lie as true today and confirm it tomorrow. Gorakhapatra has set a standard in journalism. It is not a means for personal earning; it is an organization that provides information, entertainment and contributes to language, art and culture. Let it be able to meet the challenges of the future.”     

On the occasion, the Prime Minister presented awards to senior journalist and former chair of the Gorakhapatra Corporation Bijaya Chalise and other outstanding journalists and employees.(RSS)