KATHMANDU, April 14: Chairman of Press Council Nepal Bal Krishna Basnet has called on the media to adopt a more solution-oriented and constructive approach in their reporting.
In a New Year 2082 BS message shared on social media, Basnet expressed concern over the media's tendency to highlight problems without acknowledging achievements. "We have failed to be creative and constructive in strengthening systems. We often focus solely on problems rather than exploring solutions," he said.
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As the head of Nepal’s media regulatory body, Basnet urged the media to move away from narratives that breed hopelessness, such as the widespread belief that “nothing ever happens in Nepal.” “There’s a lot we need to let go of and much we must begin. We must reflect, correct ourselves and move forward. The culture of blaming others while avoiding self-accountability must end,” he added.
Basnet stressed that Nepal has sound systems and governance frameworks but lacks the will and effort to implement them effectively. He warned against extinguishing the public's hope and reinforcing a sense of helplessness. “The media, including social media, should not only question what hasn’t been done, but also explore why, identify possible solutions, highlight achievements, and chart the way forward,” Basnet said.
Emphasizing the need to foster an environment that encourages youth to stay in the country—and even motivates those abroad to return—Basnet wrote: “No one else will build Nepal for us. But if Nepalis unite, wherever they are, we have great potential.”
Chairman Basnet has called for positivity and balanced discourse: “Let’s eliminate negativity and embrace a culture of constructive criticism.”
