Press Freedom Violations in Nepal Rise: FNJ Report

Kathmandu: Between May 4, 2024, and April 30, 2025, Nepal witnessed 73 incidents of press freedom violations, affecting 151 journalists and five media outlets, according to the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ). The FNJ released the data through its Media Monitoring Unit to mark World Press Freedom Day on May 3. FNJ General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal confirmed that two journalists were killed during this period, while 16 others faced professional insecurity.

“Threats, arrests, and abuse of journalists are direct attacks on democracy,” the FNJ stated.

Key Press Freedom Violations in Nepal

Several high-profile incidents highlight growing risks for journalists:

• Journalist Suresh Rajak was killed on March 28 (Chaitra 15) during a violent protest in Tinkune, Kathmandu.

• Arson attacks, harassment, and physical threats targeted journalists covering political and social events.

• Reporter Sabina Karki faced mistreatment while covering the teachers’ movement.

• Gopal Dahal endured psychological torture and threats from a local government official in Gharana, leading to his displacement.

FNJ condemned these violations as serious threats to press freedom in Nepal and to the country’s democratic principles.

Upholding Media Rights and Safety

FNJ urges authorities to strengthen legal protections for journalists and enforce accountability for attacks. International organizations have also called on Nepal to ensure a safe environment for media personnel, emphasizing that free journalism is essential for democracy.

Internal Links:

• World Press Freedom Day in Nepal

• Nepal Media Regulations Overview

• CPN (Maoist Centre) Political News

• Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ)

• UNESCO Press Freedom Guidelines