A case for better regulation of parliamentary reporting

The halls of Nepal's parliament, once a bastion of serious discourse, are rapidly devolving into a 'theatre of the absurd.' As reported by the Kathmandu Post, the influx of content creators armed with mobile phones and microphones is creating a chaotic environment, where the pursuit of viral engagement overshadows the fundamental principles of journalistic accountability. This phenomenon blurs the critical distinction between legitimate news reporting and targeted provocation, often reducing complex issues to sensational soundbites designed for social media consumption.

We are witnessing a disturbing trend where empathy and journalistic ethics are abandoned in the relentless race for digital clicks. Instances of public figures, including former deputy speakers, being hounded while visibly unwell highlight a profound lack of basic decency. This descent into 'viral journalism' is not merely an annoyance; it actively undermines the core function of parliamentary reporting, which should focus on nuanced critique and holding power to account. The dilution of editorial judgment means that genuine parliamentary reporters are being pushed aside, risking a broader crackdown on media access that would harm transparency.

To reclaim the necessary decorum, the Parliament Secretariat must intervene decisively, not by stifling reporting, but by establishing clear guidelines. The right to question and hold power accountable is sacrosanct. A practical solution involves segregating traditional journalists from content creators, perhaps through a system of temporary, trial passes for those primarily focused on social media. This would allow for monitoring of conduct and ensure that access is contingent upon adherence to ethical standards and a basic understanding of parliamentary procedures. Mandatory training in journalism ethics and parliamentary conduct for these creators is essential to restore the integrity of reporting within these vital democratic spaces.