25 Jun 2010 | Index Index, minipost
A leaked confidential document reveals that authorities are planning strict measures to control internet content. The guidelines, obtained by Association for Progressive Communication member, Bytes for All, propose laws allowing officials to block any online material that it finds “objectionable”. “Objectionable” is not defined, leading critics to argue that the move gives the government “carte blanche” over internet content. The move follows recent widespread blocking of websites including Facebook and YouTube.
25 Jun 2010 | Index Index, minipost
The author of the article which caused the resignation of the US commander of military operations in Afghanistan claims that members of General Stanley McChrystal’s inner-circle tried to pressure him into censoring specific statements made by the General. The journalist’s profile piece, The Runaway General, contains quotes from McChrystal which criticises both US President, Barack Obama and US Vice-President, Joe Biden. Writer Michael Hastings told the US Today programme that he never considered changing the article.
25 Jun 2010 | Index Index, minipost
Heather Murdock, a US journalist, has been expelled from Ethiopia. Local reports suggest her work as an investigative journalist in the restive Ogaden province was the reason for her expulsion. There have been a number of recent skirmishes between government forces and the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF). Murdock had been working for the broadcaster Voice of America (VOA) covering the aftermath of the general election. The Ethiopian government has recently enacted anti-terrorism legislation which empowers it to expel journalists which portray rebel groups in a favourable light and the authorities have been blocking of Voice of America’s website and jamming of its radio service in recent months.
25 Jun 2010 | Index Index, minipost
New Delhi’s Central Board of Film Classification has refused to certify the documentary Flames of the Snow. The body stated that any film which romanticises and promotes the violence of the Maoist groups in Nepal is inappropriate viewing for the general public. The feature documents over 200 years of relations between Nepalese rebels and the Indian establishment. The director of the film, Ashish Srivastava and its Kathmandu-based producers, Group for International Solidarity, intend to launch a campaign to oppose the banning. Another film entitled, Village of Widows, which features Benazir Bhutto vehemently criticising the Indian state and the burning of an Indian flag in Kashmir has also been censored by the authorities.
