KATHMANDU, Feb. 11 -- The National Assembly unanimously passed a bill on Monday, placing the Media Council under executive control instead of establishing it as an autonomous body for the overall promotion of journalism in the nation. With this bill's approval, the council now holds fewer powers than the Press Council previously exercised.

The National Assembly unanimously passed the bill after its Committee for Legislation Management approved it. The government registered the bill in the National Assembly on April 18, 2024.

Despite holding discussions with various stakeholders, the Committee for Legislation Management approved the bill without incorporating their suggestions, keeping the council under government control.

Stakeholders ...