Journalist with Radio Nepal, Sanjeeb Bikram Sah, was attacked while reporting in Saptari on October 18. Saptari lies in Madhesh Province of Nepal.
Reporter Sah shared with Freedom Forum that he was attacked while reporting on locals demonstrating at Dakneshwori Municipality, Saptari. As reporter Sah entered the municipality, two political cadres approached him shouting- why he wrote news against them and attacked him on chest. Sah was rescued by the police officers on duty.
“I was not aware of the news, attackers were talking about but later police officers informed me that they were cadres of Janamat political party and had attacked me for news published two months ago”, said Sah, “I also received many calls from the party’s leaders and spokesperson defending their cadres after the incident.”
“I was not aware of the news, attackers were talking about but later police officers informed me that they were political cadres and had attacked me for news published two months ago”, said Sah, “I also received many calls from the party’s leaders and spokesperson defending their cadres.”
Reporter Sah lodged a complaint at the District Police Office, Saptari. Police has assured him of fair investigation upon the case, informed Sah. The incident shows political hostility and intolerance to media persons, which is detrimental in democracy. The political parties must instructs their cadres to respect journalists' rights and press freedom.
Freedom Forum condemns the attack upon reporter for covering news. FF urges the security authority to fairly investigate the case and ensure safety of the journalist.
For more information,
Freedom Forum
monitoring@freedomforum.org.np