Journalist attacked returning from work in Nepal

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joins its affiliates, the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and the Nepal Press Union (NPU), in condemning the attack on a journalist in Kathmandu on January 24. The IFJ demands an immediate investigation into the attack, and those found responsible to be brought to justice.  

An unidentified gang attacked Hira Lal Biswakarma, a journalist of Himalaya Times daily, while he was returning home from office, near Mid Baneshwor, at 9:30pm.The attack left Biswakarma injured and requiring hospital treatment. The attackers also stole Biswakarma’s wallet and personal documents.

Biswakarma is also a Central Committee Member and Head of Dalit Department of the NPU. The FNJ and the NPU have demanded immediate action to arrest and punish the culprits.

The FNJ, in a statement, said: “The attack on a journalist in the capital has shown the state of security for journalists in the country.”

The IFJ said: “We condemn the attack on journalist Hiralal Biswakarma in Kathmandu, Nepal. The IFJ urge the government of Nepal to act immediately to arrest and punish the attackers; and to ensure security for journalists all over the country.”

For further information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +61 2 9333 0946 

The IFJ represents more than 600,000 journalists in 139 countries

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