FNJ Mourns Journalist’s Killing, Condemns Violence Against Media

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which was set to celebrate its 70th anniversary today, has instead been forced to mourn the tragic killing of photojournalist Suresh Rajak during violent protests in Kathmandu.

Rajak, a 29-year-old camera person for Avenues Television, lost his life when a private building in Tinkune, where he was documenting the demonstration, was set ablaze by protesters supporting Nepal’s former king. His death has sent shockwaves through the media fraternity, leading the FNJ to cancel planned celebrations and instead organize a mourning and protest gathering at Maitighar Mandala.

A large number of journalists gathered at Maitighar early this morning to pay tribute to Rajak and condemn the attacks on media personnel and institutions. The FNJ leadership decried the tragedy, calling it a direct assault on press freedom and democracy.

“It is highly deplorable that a journalist had to die in a planned fire. The FNJ condemns this act as a gross violation of press freedom and an attack on the entire media industry,” said FNJ General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal. He further stated that the federation would soon meet with authorities to demand justice and ensure journalists’ safety remains a top priority.

FNJ Secretary Soni Sharma called for an end to all forms of media suppression, emphasizing that journalists must be able to work without fear or threats. “We demand full guarantees for press freedom, freedom of opinion, and justice for the slain journalist,” she asserted.

Senior journalist Choodamani Koirala blamed both the State and protest organizers for Rajak’s tragic death, highlighting how journalists are often the first casualties of ideological conflicts.

Journalist Archana Jha went a step further, calling Rajak’s death an “intentional killing”, while former FNJ Chair Bipul Pokhrel stressed that the media is frequently targeted by those seeking political power.

“There are basic norms and standards for protests, but Friday’s demonstration completely disregarded them. Press freedom should be respected even in times of political agitation,” Pokhrel added.

FNJ Central Member Manuka Kunwar criticized the government for failing to ensure the safe rescue of Rajak. She warned that journalists’ safety will remain at risk unless the State takes responsibility for their protection.

FNJ Corporate Province Secretary Ramesh Tamata echoed these concerns, arguing that political power struggles often seek to suppress the truth, making journalists the primary targets.

In addition to Rajak’s killing, protesters vandalized the Annapurna Media Group building in Tinkune, set it on fire, attempted to storm the Kantipur Television building, and threw stones at journalists. A Himalayan Television vehicle was also damaged, further heightening fears over press safety.

The FNJ has scheduled an emergency meeting today to decide on further protest actions and will soon meet with the Minister of Communications and Information Technology to submit a formal memorandum demanding justice for Rajak and stronger protections for journalists.