The SWIFT network, a regional alliance of media professionals supporting journalists in distress throughout Asia, are deeply alarmed by the violence used against journalists during protests in Nepal. Four members of the press were injured amid a deadly crackdown on demonstrators opposing Nepal’s recent social media ban.
At least 19 people were killed and over 100 injured during the clashes so far, after police used live ammunition, rubber bullets, water cannons, and tear gas against crowds. Among those injured were Kantipur TV journalist Shyam Shrestha, Naya Patrika Daily reporter Dipendra Dhungana, Nepal Press journalist Umesh Karki, and independent journalist Shambhu Dangal. Journalists were struck by rubber bullets while carrying out their professional duty to report from the scene.
SWIFT condemns, in the strongest possible terms, violence against journalists and the excessive use of force by security forces. Press workers must be able to cover public demonstrations without fear of harassment, violence, or reprisal. We also join Freedom Forum in expressing deep concern over several targeted attacks on media houses in Nepal.
SWIFT in solidarity with our colleagues in the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and the Nepal Press Union (NPU), in condemning violence used against reporters covering demonstrations and calling on the Nepali government to launch a swift, independent investigation into the deadly crackdown.
The government’s abrupt banning of 26 social media platforms was a severe restriction on the public’s right to information and expression, and part of a worrying pattern of digital censorship. Even though the ban has already been reversed, the restrictions on rallies and mass gatherings remain in place. The attempted introduction of these bans are part of a worrying pattern of digital censorship and media restrictions in Nepal.
SWIFT urges the Nepali authorities to ensure that no future measures are taken that undermine the essential work of journalists or limit citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and free expression.
Journalists must be protected, not punished, for doing their jobs.
End
Signed :
Nathan Paul Southern- The Eye Witness Project
Exile Hub
Free Press Unlimited
Freedom Forum
