Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung has clarified that there is no consensus within the ruling coalition to remove Deputy Speaker Indira Rana. “The parliament forms the Speaker and Deputy Speaker based on government proposals,” he said, adding, “There may have been discussions about removing the Deputy Speaker, but no agreement has been reached within the coalition.”
Speaking at a press conference organized by Press Chaitari Kaski in Pokhara on Friday, Minister Gurung, who also serves as the government spokesperson, stated that any change in the Deputy Speaker would occur only if the coalition reaches a consensus. He noted, “Indira Rana became Deputy Speaker when the Rastriya Swatantra Party was in government. The situation has now changed; Rastriya Swatantra Party is no longer in the government. If the coalition agrees, the Deputy Speaker may be replaced.” He urged that the discussions about removing the Deputy Speaker should not be taken as final decisions. Reports had emerged that Congress and UML had considered filing a proposal against her for inappropriate conduct but withdrew at the last moment.
Minister Gurung also emphasized plans to amend all laws related to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to make its operations more effective. “Laws need to be updated according to time and circumstances,” he said, “All laws under the Communications Ministry will be revised and amended to align with current needs.”
On the topic of social media, he clarified that the government aims to regulate, not control, online platforms. “The Social Media Operation, Use, and Regulation Bill is intended to curb distortions and abuses seen on social media,” he said. He highlighted that cybercrime is a global challenge and that Nepal is preparing laws to prevent cyber offenses within the country.
Gurung, also the founding Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, criticized the provincial government for abolishing its offices, stating that it goes against the spirit of federalism. “Provincial governments have autonomy to abolish their offices,” he said, “It would have been better to reduce ministries instead. Abolishing offices is like taking a step backward.” The press conference was chaired by Motisagar Adhikari, President of Press Chaitari Kaski.
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