Universal Times Celebrates Its 21st Anniversary

Kathmandu – The Universal Times, published every Monday by World Publication Pvt. Ltd., celebrated its 21st anniversary with a ceremony attended by leaders and officials from various organizations. The event was hosted under the chairmanship of Santosh Kumar Paudel and inaugurated by former Vice President Paramananda Jha.

Speaking at the event, Jha highlighted that completing 21 years in print media is a significant milestone. He emphasized that media should prioritize delivering accurate information to the public rather than merely earning revenue.

MP and former Minister Eknath Dhakal described Universal Times as a role model for positive journalism. He stressed that the media sector must be free from political influence to meet public expectations. Former Minister and MP Hari Prasad Upreti praised the publication for spreading positive messages for peace.

House of Representatives member Ashok Kumar Chaudhary said the Universal Times has consistently prioritized the public while delivering its journalistic responsibilities, providing unbiased news amid a flood of information. MP Rekha Yadav pointed out flaws in the Media Council Bill and pledged to raise these issues in Parliament. She also urged journalists to remain impartial and free from party influence, wishing that future generations continue to read Universal Times.

MP Seraj Tharu lauded the publication for upholding truth and transparency, while MP Tara Lama Tamang expressed confidence that the newspaper’s writing contributes to global peace efforts.

Ram Prasad Dahal, Central General Secretary of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, warned that the Media Council Bill could restrict journalism and called on the government to rectify provisions requiring online media registration at the CDO office, likening it to Panchayat-era regulations. Raju Bhandari, General Secretary of Nepal Journalists’ Forum, appreciated the publication for delivering factual and clear news amid an era of vague reporting.

Santaram Bidari, member of the Press Council, emphasized that journalists should not assume their writings are beyond scrutiny. Press Council Chief Jhabindra Bhusal praised Universal Times for balanced reporting despite challenges such as staff issues, content limitations, and a decline in advertising. FFPU Nepal President Krishna Adhikari commended the publication for taking full ethical responsibility in delivering positive messages.

Other attendees, including FNJ Central Member Monuka Kuwar, FNJ Associate Province President Royal Acharya, and lawyer Lilanath Ghimire, extended their best wishes for Universal Times’ continued positive reporting. Participants stressed that social transformation should be implemented in practice, not just discussed, and criticized government provisions that discourage media freedom.

The event was conducted by editor Bishnu Nischal under the leadership of Santosh Kumar Paudel.