Incident Reports

Ward Chairperson attempts to attack Journalist for broadcasting news

2020-04-12

Sudurpashchim, Kailali, Dhangadhi, Ward 1

Freedom Forum is concerned about the attempt of attack to Journalist Nabaraj Dhanuk associated with Radio Dhangadi by a public representative on the 12th of April. Santosh Mudbhari, the Ward chairperson of Dhangadi Sub-Metropolitan city, Ward no. 1 picketed the Radio Dhandagi office over a news broadcast about embezzlement allegedly committed by him. Dhangadi lies in the Kailai District of SudhurPaschim Province.

According to FF's representative Min Bam, Mudbhari along with his group of 6 picketed the Radio office over news regarding relief materials by the Chairperson Mudhbhari had been broadcasted in a live morning show titled "Hot Debate". The chairperson attempted to attack the presenter of the show, Nabaraj Dhanuk but the residents of Ward no. 3 stopped them. However, the chairperson on his defense said, he did not intend to picket the office. 

Freedom Forum condemns the attack as it is a gross violation of press freedom. Despite the presence of alternative ways to express dissatisfaction and reservations upon news content, attacking journalists is severe intimidation and contributes to self-censorship.

Details and Impacts
Violent / Non-violent Nonviolent
Primary Form Gherau/Dharna (sit-in)/padlocking
Primary Cause Issues related to freedom of expression and civil rights
Secondary Cause Government Relief
Actor 1 - Number of people 1
Actor 1 - Affiliations Local authorities (incl VDC, district, gov. line agencies at local level except education and health)
Actor 1 - Youth unknown
Actor 2 - Number of people 1
Actor 2 - Affiliation (Target) Journalist/Media
Actor 2 - Youth unknown
National/Online Media

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