Government committed to combat digital violence: Minister Kharel

Kathmandu, Nov 25: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, has said the government is committed to combatting digital violence against women and girls taking place with the rising development of technology. 

While inaugurating the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence 2025 here today, the Minister called for unified efforts for an end to all sorts of digital violence against women and girls.

Citing that this year's theme for the Activism which is 'End digital violence against all women and girls', which is very relevant of the time, the Minister said that now digital space is not apart from our daily life. 

Though technology has made our learnings and activities easier, it is still riskier and unsafe for many women and girls, he said, adding that, "online harassment, cyber-stalking, the use of photos without consent, hate speech, and trolling instill fear and intimidation.”

The priority of the Ministry is not only to build infrastructure and expand the services, but to establish a digital ecosystem which is safe, inclusive and capable of empowering each Nepali citizens, the Minister said. "Until our half of the population feel safe online, our digital progress could not be considered complete and impartial." 

He also said that the National Cyber Security Center is working to increasing public awareness on cyber security and the recently established AI Centre in the country reflects the government's commitment to building a digital Nepal. 

"The government alone cannot overcome digital violence," he said, promising robust legal and policy frameworks to address it. 

He added that the cyber law will be reviewed to ensure justice for survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. 

Also the government spokesperson, Minister Kharel shared about the government plans to collaborate with the education sector to incorporate digital literacy into the curriculum, encourage the private sector and innovators to develop secure platforms, and strengthen cooperation with all three levels of government, the United Nations, and civil society to promote digital safety for girls and women. (RSS)