KATHMANDU: The Film Journalists Association of Nepal (FJAN) has objected to the government’s decision to channel advertisements exclusively through state-owned media, calling it a threat to press freedom.

In a statement issued Friday, General Secretary Raghunath Sapkota said the move undermines private and community media that uphold democratic values.The association argued the policy restricts an open and competitive information system and attempts to impose a ‘syndicate’ in advertising, which could weaken independent media outlets.

It warned that limiting advertisement flow would ultimately curtail freedom of expression, stressing that such a practice is incompatible with democratic norms.

The association has urged the government to immediately withdraw or revise the decision to safeguard press freedom, democratic principles, and civil rights.