FNJ Forms 7-Member Committee to Investigate Attacks on Journalists and Media Houses

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has established a seven-member committee to investigate the killing of a journalist and attacks on media houses during Friday’s violent protest at Tinkune, Kathmandu.

The committee will be led by FNJ Vice Chair Umid Bagchand, following a decision made during an FNJ central committee meeting attended by office bearers and central members in Kathmandu.

Other members of the investigative team include Ramesh Khatiwada, Prakash Dhaulakoti, Soni Sharma, Ashok Tiwari, Baikuntha Parajuli, and Sabi Priyasan.

According to Coordinator Bagchand, the team will begin its investigation immediately, visiting affected media houses and speaking with victims, witnesses, fellow journalists, and the families of the deceased. The committee will compile a detailed report on the incidents and provide recommendations on FNJ’s course of action.

The royalist demonstration at Tinkune on Friday escalated into violence, with protesters setting fire to private buildings and damaging nearby structures. Photojournalist Suresh Rajak lost his life while covering the protest from a building that was torched by demonstrators. Protesters also attacked the offices of Kantipur Television and the Annapurna Post daily.