Journalist Attacked in Jhapa: Rights Group Condemns Violence Against Press

Kathmandu. The GEN-Z Movement Alliance has expressed serious objection to the attack on journalist Arjun Acharya of Ratopati Online while he was reporting on the elections in Kamal Rural Municipality, Jhapa. The Alliance condemned the violent act carried out by cadres of the CPN (UML) on the past Falgun 14, calling it an assault on the soul of democracy.

Journalist Acharya sustained injuries to his eyes, cheek, and back during the assault while taking photos and videos, and his personal phone was also confiscated. The Alliance concluded that this use of force against the press by cadres of a political party that advocates for good governance and the rule of law raises serious questions about the internal discipline and political culture of the concerned party.

Stating that press freedom is a constitutional guarantee, not a favor from any political party, the GEN-Z Movement stated that raising a hand against the fourth estate, which monitors the state, is an attack on citizens' freedom of expression and transparency. The statement mentioned that intimidating the press during elections is a direct violation of democratic values and norms.

The Alliance demanded immediate identification of the individuals involved in the incident and strict legal action through a fair and transparent investigation. Furthermore, it urged all political parties to issue clear directives to their cadres to respect democratic conduct and press freedom. 

While wishing the injured journalist Acharya a speedy recovery, the Alliance also warned that impunity in such incidents will lead to a serious democratic crisis in the future.