Stricter Entry Rules Imposed on Journalists at Singha Durbar

Dragon Media Correspondent

Authorities have tightened entry procedures for journalists seeking access to Singha Durbar, Nepal’s main administrative complex.

Previously, journalists were generally allowed to enter Singha Durbar by presenting a valid press identification card issued by the Press Council Nepal. However, on Thursday, journalists were not granted entry solely on the basis of their press cards.

Security personnel asked journalists to provide additional details, including the purpose of their visit, the office they intended to visit and the person they planned to meet, before allowing them to enter the complex.

Journalists said such requirements had not been routinely enforced in the past. Earlier, presenting a valid press identification card was generally sufficient, and journalists were not regularly required to specify where they were going or whom they intended to meet.

No official explanation has yet been made public regarding the reason for the sudden tightening of access procedures. It also remains unclear whether the measure is temporary or will become part of a permanent entry policy.

Attempts by media outlets to obtain clarification from Hem Raj Aryal, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls.

Singha Durbar houses the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, most federal ministries and several key government institutions. Access for journalists is therefore closely linked to routine newsgathering and the media’s ability to obtain information from public authorities.

Unless the government clearly explains the reasons and criteria behind the new restrictions, questions are likely to remain over their potential impact on regular journalistic access to government institutions.