Addressing the inaugural session of a two-day National Convention of Women Journalists organised in the capital, he called on the ex-rebels to demonstrate flexibility to iron out mutual differences

and forge political consensus. “I, hereby, appeal to the Maoists to immediately revoke the decision of declaring the autonomous states and to withdraw their protest programmes,” he said.

The PM also expressed his sorrow and anguish over the physical attack on Rukum-based journalist Tika Bista on the eve of International Human Rights Day. “The government will maintain zero tolerance on any form of violence against women. We are serious to protect the life of journalists and put an end to the culture of impunity,” he said.

He alleged that Bista was victimised by the murderers of Rukum-based human rights activist and schoolteacher Yadu Nath Gautam. The Maoists had claimed the responsibility for his murder during the decade-long insurgency. Minister for Information and Communications Shankar Pokharel admitted that ensuring the life and professional security of working journalists in transitional period was more challenging today than ever before.

Dharmendra Jha, president, Federation of Nepali Journalists, flayed the government for paying lip service to the concern of mediapersons.

KATHMANDU: Nepal Medical Association on Saturday condemned the attack on journalist Tika Bista. The NMA, in a press statement, urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to probe into the incident and bring the perpetrators to book. It also demanded that the government ensured peace and security in the country. The NMA has also pledged to helping Bista in her medical treatment.