Misleading Information a Serious Challenge for Society and Youth: Minister Thapa

Pokhara.Gandaki Province Minister for Social Development, Youth and Sports, Bindu Kumar Thapa, has stated that misleading and false information is becoming a serious challenge for today's society, and particularly for the younger generation.

Speaking as the chief guest at an "Awareness and Interaction Program on Misleading and False Information" organized by the Office of the Press Registrar under the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers in Pokhara on Wednesday, he noted that the risk of misinformation has grown alongside the rapid development of information technology.

"Today we are in the era of information technology, but with it, the influx of information has also increased," he said. "Along with true news, false and misleading information spreads easily, which has a direct impact on social harmony and the mindset of the youth."

Minister Thapa pointed out the danger that misleading information could lead to conflict, social intolerance, and even violence between communities. He stated that since youth are more active on digital platforms, they have become the primary targets of such information.

Mentioning that the Gandaki Province government has always fully respected the freedom of the press and expression, he clarified that freedom does not mean license for recklessness. "The Mass Communication Act, 2080 and Regulations, 2082 encourage dignified, responsible, and accountable journalism," he said.

Addressing youth involved in new media and YouTube journalism, he urged them to use the great power of cameras and mobile phones to connect society. "Information should be disseminated based on truth and facts, not for the sake of going viral and dividing society," he stated.

He emphasized the need to develop a culture of verifying the source and truth of information when it is received. Minister Thapa pledged that the Gandaki Province government would continue digital literacy and awareness programs in collaboration with the Office of the Press Registrar and stakeholders.

Urging participants not to limit the knowledge gained from the program to the hall but to take it to the society and community, he said that everyone's cooperation is necessary to dispel the darkness of false information with the light of true information.

The program, chaired by Gandaki Press Registrar Bimala Bhandari, was attended by the Chief Secretary of the provincial government, the Vice Chairman of the Policy and Planning Commission, the CDO of Kaski, the Communication Registrar and media experts from Bagmati Province, the Attorney General, Ministry Secretaries, heads of security agencies, media persons, information officers, civil society, and stakeholders from various sectors.