KATHMANDU, April 11: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to launch an impartial and independent investigation into the murder of journalist Suresh Rajak, who died during the pro-monarchy protest in Thapathali on March 28.
FNJ Vice President Umid Bagchand led a delegation that submitted a memorandum to NHRC Chairperson Top Bahadur Magar on Friday, calling for a thorough probe into the incident.
FNJ General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal, while submitting the memorandum, said the perpetrators reportedly burned journalist Rajak alive during the violent protest. He emphasized the need for an unbiased investigation and urged the commission to ensure justice by taking action against those involved.
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FNJ Vice President Bagchand urged the commission to investigate the Thapathali violence thoroughly, calling it an attack on press freedom and freedom of expression.
In the memorandum, FNJ demanded a fact-based investigation, action against those responsible, compensation for the family of the deceased journalist and affected media houses, free treatment for injured journalists, and assurance of safety for media outlets and journalists.
Receiving the memorandum, NHRC Chairperson Magar pledged the commission's full support in uncovering the truth and ensuring justice for journalist Rajak.
Chairperson Magar said the assailants had also attacked officials from the commission during the incident. He stated that the commission had already launched an investigation to uncover the truth as impartially as possible. "You will have no reason to doubt the investigation," he assured.
He added that the commission had already discussed the matter with the Chief District Officers and police chiefs of Kathmandu and Lalitpur as part of the ongoing investigation.
