Kathmandu, January 15:

The European Union today denounced the murder of Radio Today journalist Uma Singh. Expressing serious concern about the murder, the Council of the EU missions in Kathmandu called on the authorities to carry out a prompt and thorough investigation into her killing, identify those responsible for the killing and bring them to book.

A press statement issued by the Embassy of Finland in Kathmandu on behalf of the council said, “The government should be able to deliver a strong message that there will be no impunity for attacks against freedom of expression and independent media, nor for any other crimes.”

“The EU missions call on all sectors of Nepali society to respect the opinion and rights of journalists. Press freedom is one of the most important components of democracy and continued attempts to intimidate the independent media signal a very serious disturbing trend that must be stopped,” it said.

“The EU believes it that is necessary to protect women, especially human rights defenders. The increasing incidents of violence against women are a gross violation of human rights and the government of Nepal has the responsibility to bring an end to these. We urge the government to take urgent action,” added the statement.