Journalists face increased attacks and threats in Nepal

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 23 July 2018

Recently, journalists in Nepal encountered increased violence and threats while covering demonstrations. The International Federation of Journalists has condemned these acts and called for improved protections.

Summary

In recent days, journalists faced attacks and threats in Nepal while covering demonstrations. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joined its affiliate the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) in condemning acts of violence and threats against journalists.

On July 21, five journalists were attacked by Nepal police officers while they were covering clashes between the police and demonstrators near the Parliament in Kathmandu.

Ajaya Babu Shiwakoti, the Editor of hamrakura.com and General Secretary of Nepal Press Union (NPU), Maheshwor Gautam of Rajdhani daily, Nivesh Kumar of News24 TV, Skanda Gautam and Prabin Maharjan of The Himalayan Times daily were victims of the attack.

On July 18, LB Devkota of Kantipur daily and Prakash Upadhyay of AP1 TV sustained minor injuries after an attack by the police while they were covering the clashes between police and demonstrators supporting Dr Govinda KC’s hunger strike in Jumla, Karnali. Police also tried to snatch the camera from the journalists and harassed them.

On July 22, journalist Bidur Katuwal, the Joint Secretary of FNJ Udayapur district, was threatened by Baldev Chaudhary, the mayor of Triyuga Municipality, Devi Kumar Chaudhary, the vice-mayor, and Provincial Assembly member Sunita Chaudhary over a report.

Ramesh Bista, the general secretary of FNJ said: “The police atrocity on journalists performing their duty of informing the public is an attack on freedom of the press and expression. The FNJ condemns the incidents of minimizing the professional freedom and demands action against those involved.”

The IFJ said: “The IFJ condemns police’s atrocity on journalists covering the demonstrations in Nepal. For the democracy to function well, journalists and media should be allowed to independently report, and the state has a duty to facilitate the safe environment for journalists. Such acts of violence against journalists undermines journalists’ role and weaken the press freedom. The IFJ urges the Nepal authorities not to repeat such acts, and take action against those involved.” – IFJ media release

KEY POINTS:

• Journalists attacked by police during protests in Kathmandu.
• IFJ and FNJ condemn violence against journalists.
• Police attempted to confiscate journalists' equipment.
• Local officials threatened journalists over reporting.
• Calls for action against perpetrators to protect press freedom.