HImalayan Television reporter from Tanahun, Binod Dhungana was verbally abused while reporting in Shuklagandaki Municipality, Gandaki Province.
Reporter Dhungana shared with Freedom Forum that on June 14 while he was reporting on promotion of a local market, the municipality’s Chief Krishna Raj Pandit made disrespectful comments about journalists stating that journalists were affiliated to political parties.
"I couldnot resist and I asked him whom he was referring to and why. In response, Pandit shouted, 'I donot need you to teach me' and left the place. This is not the first time he has used abusive language against journalists", added Dhungana.
Freedom Forum is concerned over the incident. Such remarks and behaviour of local representatives can discourage journalists from reporting on issues of public interest at local level. FF urges the concerned authorities to cooperate with journalists and respect their role in promoting local resources and development initiatives through their reporting.
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