Press Centre Nepal demands probe as suspicious vehicles block media houses in Kathmandu

KATHMANDU: Press Centre Nepal on Monday demanded an immediate investigation after suspicious vehicles were found parked at the entrances of several media houses in Kathmandu. The organisation said the presence of the vehicles obstructed the regular work of journalists and media personnel.

In a press statement, Press Centre Nepal General Secretary Manoj Gharti Magar said the vehicles had been parked within the office premises of some major media outlets since the morning, blocking movement and creating an atmosphere of fear for reporters and other staff. The organisation said the incident hindered the independent operation of media outlets and placed psychological pressure on journalists.

The statement warned that actions that impede press freedom, freedom of expression and the public’s right to information — rights guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal — run counter to democratic values. It called on all concerned parties to refrain from creating obstructions, pressure or fear for media houses and journalists at their workplaces.

Standing in support of the democratic system and civil liberties, Press Centre Nepal condemned the threats, fear, obstruction and interference targeting the media sector. The organisation said such acts attack democratic practice and fundamental constitutional rights and 'cannot be viewed as normal occurrences.'

“Press Centre Nepal strongly demands that the concerned security agencies investigate the incident at the earliest and make the reality public, identify the individual or group creating the obstruction and bring them under the ambit of legal action, and ensure the security of media houses and journalists,” the statement said.

The association also urged media personnel, press-affiliated organisations and democracy-minded citizens to remain alert and united to protect press freedom and freedom of expression.