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ALERT - NEPAL
13 June 2007
Editor receives death threat after exposing sex trade
SOURCE: Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ), Kathmandu
(FNJ/IFEX) - Ambika Bhandari, editor of the "Samyentra Weekly", published
in Biratchowk in Morang, a district in eastern Nepal, was threatened with
death by Bikram Bhujel, owner of the "Don't Cross Me" restaurant on 11 June
2007. Bhandari was threatened regarding news published in the paper that
same day.
According to Shiva Bahadur Karki, president of FNJ's Morang chapter, Bhujel
entered Bhandari's residence along with a few hooligans armed with weapons,
including Khukuri knives and other sharp objects. He then threatened to
kill Bhandari, close his publication and burn his motorcycle as well.
Earlier, Bhandari had published news about the sex business run inside the
restaurant. Bhandari has now moved away from Morang out of fear that he
will be attacked.
The Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) has condemned the incident and
expressed its concern over the continuous threats against journalists for
writing news. Journalists have a duty to present all sides of an issue. No
one can force journalists not to write news that is unfavourable to them.
The Federation has also urged the government to ensure the safety and
security of the journalist, create a favourable environment for Bhandari's
return and take immediate action against the guilty parties.
For further information contact Mr. R. B. Khatry, Executive Director at
FNJ, Media Village, Tilganga, Kathmandu, Nepal, tel: +977 1 449 0063, or
+977 1 449 3873, fax: +977 1 449 0085, e-mail: fnjnepal@mail.com.np,
Internet: http://www.fnjnepal.org
The information contained in this alert is the sole responsibility of FNJ.
In citing this material for broadcast or publication, please credit FNJ.
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