Bhaktapur, June 28

Active journalists in Bhaktapur have demanded security, citing threats they face while collecting news stories.

Speaking at an interaction ‘Journalists and Security’ organised by Informal Sector Service Centre, Bhaktapur chapter of Federation of Nepali Journalists and Active Journalists Forum yesterday, the journalists complained that they were facing the same level of threat as during the Maoist insurgency.

At the programme, president of Bhaktapur chapter of FNJ Puskar Budhathoki said, “The government should create an environment for journalists to work without fear.”

Active Journalist Forum Chair Ramesh Giri said media houses, FNJ and the local administration must ensure journalists’ security.

Press Chautari Bhaktapur Chairman Som Sharma said the FNJ should not cover up incidents of physical attacks and threats to journalists. He called on the FNJ to not limit itself to just issuing statements.