Free speech test for Bhutan

IN Media Watch Briefs | 19/11/2016

Bhutan is facing its first free speech test after its transition to democracy, reports the GuardianIndependent journalist Namgay Zam,  earlier a presenter on the state-run broadcaster Bhutan Broadcasting Service, is facing  imprisonment or a massive fine  if found guilty of defaming a prominent businessman. She shared a Facebook post by a woman about a property dispute between her family and a local businessman, Sonam Phuntsho. The post included allegations of forgery and nepotism within the judiciary.       

Subscribe To The Newsletter
The new term for self censorship is voluntary censorship, as proposed by companies like Netflix and Hotstar. ET reports that streaming video service Amazon Prime is opposing a move by its peers to adopt a voluntary censorship code in anticipation of the Indian government coming up with its own rules. Amazon is resisting because it fears that it may alienate paying subscribers.                   

Clearly, the run to the 2019 elections is on. A journalist received a call from someone saying they were from Aajtak channel and were conducting a survey, asking whom she was going to vote for in 2019. On being told that her vote was secret, the caller assumed she wasn't going to vote for 'Modiji'. The caller, a woman, also didn't identify herself. A month or two earlier the same journalist received a call, this time from a man, asking if she was going to vote for the BSP.                 

View More