Press Council Nepal is a statutory body set up by Government of Nepal to promote the standards of a free press in a democratic society and to advise the government on matters relating to the development of healthy and credible journalism in the country. The need of such an autonomous and independent body was first realised by the first Press Commission set up in 1957. Subsequently, the government set up a Press Advisory Council in 1969, headed by a standing judge of the Supreme Court. In 1972, a 12-member Press Council was constituted by the government following the recommendations of New Communications Plan 1971. During the period of 30-year rule of partyless Panchayat system, political parties were banned and the Council was constrained to act in conformity with the media policies and laws framed by the government of the time. In the aftermath of the restoration of multi-party democracy in April 1990, media institutions underwent rapid transformation through the adoption of new communication policy and laws. The government promulgated a separate Press Council Act in 1992 which defined specifically the principles, functions and responsibilites of the Council. The Council is an autonomous, corporate ad permanent body. It shall, like a person, have right to acquire, enjoy, sell or otherwise dispose of movable and immovable property. The council may also sue on its behalf or be sued against it.