Freedom Forum is concerned over Nuwakot Chief District Officer Uddap Bahadur Thapa's misbehaviour against a female journalist Rupa Aryal while she was reporting on February 12 at CDO office. Nuwakot lies in Province 3. Journalist Aryal is a Station Manager at Mix FM, Nuwakot.
During telephonic conversation with Freedom Forum, journalist Aryal shared that CDO Thapa misbehaved with her while inquiring about difficulties local people were facing in course of the extension of Trishuli 3A Hydropower project.
"CDO Thapa also threatened me asking- who was she to capture the photo without consent and ordered police officers to drag me out of the office", journalist Aryal further complained.
Thapa further threatened journalist Aryal that she would face punishment for capturing photograph that is against law, according to him. He also warned her not to capture any public personnel photos who have been working in public area/offices. She was further threatened of case at Press Council Nepal and got her mobile damaged.
Freedom Forum condemns the incident as it is sheer violation of press freedom. Journalists have right to report on the issues of public concern and public officers are also obliged to provide necessary information. Hence, FF strongly urges the concerned authority to address the issue seriously and ensure the free reporting atmosphere to journalists. Also, the public authority should respect the rights of journalists and citizen's right to information.
(Photo Source- Aryal's Facebook)
For More Information
Freedom Forum
monitoring@freedomforum.org.np
01-4102030/ 01-4102022