Rajbiraj, July 7

Local media persons in Saptari have accused government offices and local bodies of not providing information related to public interest.

“Right to information is a fundamental right guaranteed by our constitution but quite surprisingly it’s not implemented in majority of government offices and local bodies here where information is deliberately hidden or hardly provided even when someone needs it,” said FNJ central member Awadhesh Jha, speaking at an interaction organised by Federation of Nepali Journalists Saptari chapter today.

“There are many offices which are yet to appoint an information officer, and even there where there is one it takes months for media persons, let alone others, to get information,” he added.

Journalists, including FNJ chairperson Jitendra Khadga, former president Dhirendra Sah, Shubhachandra Jha, Lalita Sah also spoke on the occasion and urged the stakeholders to help journalists get information.

The programme was organised under the chairmanship of FNJ Saptari vice-chairperson Sudha Dev.

On the occasion, acting chief district officer Nara Bahadur Khadka pledged to take initiatives to ease the information delivery to journalists.

“Journalists have a very important role in spreading awareness among the public and thus ensuring good government. So I will investigate the issue and take action against any official failing to cooperate to provide information of public interest,” he said.