Nepalese Journalist Jiyalal Threatened Over Critical Report; Press Federation Demands Action
"Targeted for Highlighting Political Controversies, Journalist Receives Threats; Federation Calls for Swift Justice and Protection of Press Freedom"
Kathmandu: Journalist Jiyalal Sah from Birgunj has reportedly received threats via social media for publishing a news article critical of political activities. The Nepali Journalists’ Federation, Parsa Chapter, has condemned the intimidation, calling it a direct attack on press freedom and democracy. According to a statement by Federation Secretary Vijay Kumar Mahato, Sah became a target after publishing a report on Sidha Kura Dotcom. The article highlighted remarks made by Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli during a program in Sakhuwaprasaini, Parsa, which involved the induction of individuals with controversial backgrounds into the party.
Sah has accused UML members Birendra Patel and Nikhil Raj Giri of issuing threats related to the report. He also claimed to have received anonymous phone calls attempting to intimidate him. While Sah has notified the Parsa Journalists’ Federation in writing, he has provided only verbal information to the police regarding the threats. The controversial report also mentioned Madhes Government Minister Pramod Jaiswal, who is allegedly facing a criminal case and is currently out on bail after depositing NPR 1,50,000. Following the publication, threatening posts using Sah’s photograph appeared on social media, further escalating concerns about his safety.
The federation stated that dissatisfaction with news content should be addressed through legal means rather than resorting to threats or harassment. “Such actions undermine press freedom and create an unsafe environment for journalists working to uphold democracy,” the statement said. This incident draws attention to the broader challenges faced by journalists in South Asia, including in India, where reporters often face online abuse, harassment, and even physical attacks for covering politically sensitive stories. As in Nepal, Indian media professionals have been advocating for stricter safeguards to protect press freedom and ensure their safety.
The Nepali Journalists’ Federation has called for a swift investigation into the threats and demanded that the culprits be held accountable. It urged the government, political parties, and other stakeholders to take immediate action to ensure the safety of media professionals.
The episode underscores the growing risks faced by journalists across the region, highlighting the need for stronger legal frameworks and collective efforts to protect freedom of the press. As the digital landscape increasingly becomes a tool for intimidation, both Nepal and India must address the challenges threatening the independence and security of their media.
