Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, March 16:

Noted human rights activist and former speaker Damannath Dhungana and Sudip Pathak, chairman of the Human Rights Organisation of Nepal (HURON) met Nicholas Howen, secretary-general of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), today.

Howen said that the ICJ is committed to minimise cases of illegal detention, strengthen free judicial system and implement its effectiveness and to protect human rights in the country, said a HURON statement. He said the ICJ is all set to open its branch in Nepal soon.

Dhungana briefed Howen about the political situation following the royal move and incidents concerning habeas corpus petitions, judicial system and the right to travel abroad.

Pathak emphasised that people’s lives should be protected even during a state of emergency for which he sought ICJ’s assistance, the statement said.

Meanwhile, the HURON has expressed its concern over curtailment of the freedom of expression and censorship on media.

In a press statement today, HURON called on the authorities concerned to lift press censorship and allow FM stations to broadcast news.

It also urged the government not to prevent people’s movement in the country.