Sharada Pokharel, a journalist of Thahakhabar.com, was misbehaved for writing news about irregularities in Bara on July 12. Bara lies in Province 2.
According to Freedom Forum's representative for Province 2, Rajan Singh, Contractor of Shrestha Builder Lal Shrestha had threatened journalist Pokharel after she published news about Shrestha who had cheated municipality by handing over a bounced check for second installment of riverine excavation. Also, journalist Pokharel had written news on the issue of river excavation and revenue embezzlement earlier.
Shrestha had abused Pokharel during the discussion held at municipality office.
FF condemns the incident. Journalist Pokharel misbehaved merely for writing news is threat to press freedom. As journalists are watchdog of the society, exposing irregularities and misconduct of the society for welfare of society come under the duty of journalist. Hence, FF urges concerned authority to take action soon and ensure a safe environment for reporting to journalists.
For more information,
Freedom Forum
monitoring@freedomforum.org.np