Kathmandu, November 24

A media monitoring report prepared by the Federation of Nepali Journalists has painted a bleak picture of the condition of journalists and media houses post-Madhes agitation.

The monitoring report covers the period between October 16 and November 23.

According to FNJ, at least 95 cases of violation of freedom of press and expression have been documented during the period. Of the cases, there were 22 incidents of attack on journalists, as many cases of manhandling and intimidation, a shutdown of a publication house, seven attacks on press vehicles and 25 incidents of various forms of obstruction.

The report says that journalists and media houses have become the target of both agitators and security agencies and under the mounting pressure to censor news reports.

Media houses are having a tough time due to acute shortage of fuel, newsprint and other raw materials.

FNJ has appealed to the government and agitating parties not to violate the freedom of the press. It has also urged the parties to resolve the ongoing crisis through meaningful dialogue.