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The Sichuan Series of Celebrations on China-Nepal 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations and the Sichuan-Nepal Culture, Tourism, Economy and Trade Exchange Month commenced with an inaugural event held at Chengdu, China. 

The event held on Friday was jointly organized by Foreign Affairs Office of the Sichuan Provincial Government and the Consulate General of Nepal in Chengdu.

Speaking at the event, Director General of Foreign Affairs Office of Sichuan Province, Zhang Tao, reiterated the recent progress in connectivity between Nepal and Sichuan, highlighting the momentum of socio-cultural exchanges in the past year.

In his remarks, Ambassador of Nepal to China, Krishna Prasad Oli, reminisced about the historical ties shared by the two countries and more importantly, the bonds shared by the people of these countries. 

Chief Executive Officer of Nepal Tourism Board, Deepak Raj Joshi, stated that Nepal is ready to welcome Chinese tourists and offer them an unforgettable experience in every corner of Nepal. 

The Consul General confirmed the Consulate’s readiness to facilitate and encourage all forms of trade, tourism and cultural exchange initiatives between Sichuan and Nepal.

The event included performances from Chinese performers and Himali Cultural Group, who arrived in Chengdu for Sichuan-Nepal Culture, Tourism, Economy and Trade Exchange Month.

Various Nepali products were showcased by Nepali exhibitors during the event. During the month-long Sichuan series, Nepali local products’ exhibition and cultural exchange events will be held in different cities of Sichuan Province.

The Sichuan series is also expected to enhance integrated and robust cultural, trade, economic and people-to-people exchange between Nepal and Sichuan, according to the Consulate General of Nepal in Chengdu, China.

A 'Hashtag Arrest Gyanendra' campaign has been launched on social media demanding the arrest and action against the then King Gyanendra Shah.

There have been demands on social media that Gyanendra Shah be held accountable and bring him to justice for the violent activities that took place in the name of protests in Kathmandu on Friday, demanding the restoration of the monarchy.

A photo journalist and a protester were killed and many others were injured during the demonstration of pro-monarchy in Tinkune yesterday.

Dozens of commercial buildings, media outlets and political party offices were vandalized and set on fire.

Claiming that the then King Gyanendra Shah was the mastermind behind the violent protest, a campaign has been launched on social media demanding his arrest.

Social media users have launched a hashtag campaign on Saturday demanding Shah's arrest.

Police have already arrested Rastriya Prajatantra Party leaders Dhawal Shumsher Rana and Rabindra Mishra among others for their alleged involvement in inciting the crowd and arson and vandalism.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak today inspected different areas including Tinkune and Koteshwor where supporters of the former king vandalized and torched various physical structures.

A team comprising Home Minister Lekhak, Home Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi, high-ranking officials of the Home Ministry and police officers carried out the inspection of the torched private house at Tinkune, Kantipur Television, Annapurna Post Daily, Judibuti-based Herbs Production and Processing Company Limited, party office of CPN (Unified Socialist) and CPN (Maoist Center) and Koteshwor-based sales store. 

In the course of the monitoring, Home Minister Lekhak said the attack on the media house was condemnable and those involved in such inhumane activities would be brought to book. Condemning the attempt of destroying the media, he committed to taking action against the perpetrators. 

He mentioned, "In democratic republic, there will be mutual competition. There are government and opposition sides as per the people's mandate. But it should be countered by being united when anyone orchestrates anarchic activities against the system."

Media rights body have condemned the attacks upon Annapurna Media Network, other media outlets and journalists in Nepal. 

Issuing a press statement, Freedom Forum said it has been saddened over several brutal incidents of press freedom violations including the death of a journalist and attack on another in the protest organized by pro-monarchy demonstrators in the federal capital, Kathmandu on March 28.

The protestors vandalized media houses, attacked media persons and killed a media person during the protest organized at Tinkune, Kathmandu. The pro-monarchist groups organized the demonstration, demanding restoration of monarchy and Hindu Kingdom. As the protestors breached the prohibited area, police clashed with them. Police used tear gas shells and water cannons to scatter the mob, but the situation took an ugly turn, Freedom Forum said.  

They hurled stones at media houses- the Annapurna Media Network and Kantipur Television at Tinkune area. They also set on fire the office of Annapurna Post. Glasses of windows in the buildings were broken in the incident, Freedom Forum said.  A photojournalist at Avenues Television, Suresh Rajak, died in a fire set on a building at Tinkune by the protestors.

 According to the fellow reporters on site, reporter Rajak was covering the protest from rooftop of the building which was set on fire by the protestors. Official confirmation is however, awaited. Similarly, reporter with the Onlinekhabar.com Dinesh Gautam was attacked by the protestors, breaking his leg, while he was taking pictures of the protestors. They also threw stones on the vehicle of Himalaya Television.

Freedom Forum vehemently condemns the attack upon media and journalists. Although everyone has the right to have peaceful protest guaranteed by constitution, such violent activities are deplorable. Despite being frontline rights defenders, journalists are facing such risk of attacks during protests from both sides- protestors and security persons. FF repeatedly urges all concerned including the administration and protestors to respect journalists’ right to free reporting and ensure adequate safety of the media persons in such situations. The media houses and journalists are also equally urged to use safety gears and report from safe space during violent protests, the statement says. 

Similarly, Media Action Nepal has also condemned the attack upon journalist and media houses.  In another incident, Rajesh Gurung, a photojournalist with The Himalayan Times, was injured by rubber bullets during the protest. He sustained injuries to his thigh and foot while covering the demonstrations in the Tinkune area of Kathmandu. Gurung was admitted to Kantipur Hospital, where he was prescribed six types of antibiotics for his treatment.

Another journalist of Onlinekhabar, Dinesh Gautam, was injured during a pro-monarchy protest in Tinkune today. He was taking photos of protesters snatching a gun used by security forces to fire tear gas when he was mobbed by them. According to Gautam, he was pushed and attempted to steal his mobile.

Following that, they pushed Gautam down. A team of security personnel arrived shortly after that and fired tear gas. Gautam escaped. While fleeing to Koteshwor, he was pursued by rioters. At the time, the protesters dubbed him a police CID. “I clicked the picture of rioters snatching a police gun. However, they attacked and pursued me, mistaking me for a security CID officer. They broke my leg. 

 “It is plastered, and I have to walk with crutches,” he told Media Action Nepal. Gautam, who was injured during the incident, was taken to Everest Hospital. Doctors stated that his leg was broken during the incident. Moreover, they also attacked media organizations, setting fire to the Annapurna Post office and pelting stones at the Kantipur Television building. Initially, demonstrators hurled stones at media offices before escalating to arson. It has been reported that the fire at Annapurna Post was later extinguished by office staff. The Annapurna Post posted a video on Facebook showing them setting fire after pelting stones. 

Protesters also vandalized Kantipur Television and several nearby buildings. Stones were thrown at the office building and other nearby structures. Media Action Nepal has been closely monitoring the recent incidents of violations against journalists and independent media, and we are deeply concerned about the tragic death of a journalist, as well as the injuries and attacks on journalists and media houses. Laxman Datt Pant, Founder and Executive Director of Media Action Nepal, stated, “We call on the government, protesters, and media houses to take a firm stand for the safety of journalists.” Media Action Nepal strongly urges the government, protestors, and media outlets to take immediate and responsible actions:

•              The government must ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts face swift and severe consequences.

•              Protestors must understand that violence against journalists is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

•              Media houses must take every necessary measure to protect their reporters and ensure their safety during such events.

“The tragic loss of Suresh Rajak’s life is a stark reminder of the risks journalists face in their line of work,” Pant added.

Annapurna Media Network Chairman Rameshwar Thapa condemned the attack on the headquarters of Annapurna Media Network with an intention to kill the journalists. This is an act of terrorism, he added.

“We will honor any kind of peaceful protest staged by abiding by the Constitution. But today’s attack on Annapurna Media Network and other media houses and commercial buildings is itself a condemnable act. We can clearly see that is an act of terrorism,” he said during a press conference organized after the pro-monarchy protesters attacked the office of Annapurna Media Network.

“The pro-monarchy protesters attacked the office of Annapurna Media Network while the journalists and employees were working inside. They even tried to enter the office by smashing the windows and attempting to set fire to the office. This is a heinous crime,” Chairman Thapa said. “The attack was aimed at killing the journalists and employees working inside the office which is condemnable and This is an act of terrorism.”

Issuing a press statement AMN Chairman and editors of Annapurna Media Network’s various outlets have condemned the attack.  A statement jointly  issued by AMN Chairman Rameshwar Thapa, Annapurna Post Editor-in-Chief Akhanda Bhandari, The Annapurna Express Editor Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Shambhu Kattel, Editor of Annapurnapost.com, Bhupal Luitel, Editor Radio Annapurna and Dipendra Bantawa, News Chief, AP1 TV says:  “We strongly condemn the violent arson attack on the headquarters of Annapurna Media Network (AMN) and Kantipur Television, carried out by an unruly group under the pretext of advocating for the reinstatement of the monarchy. We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Avenues TV camera person Suresh Rajak, who lost his life in a fire set in a private building.” 

This attack is a direct assault on press freedom and democracy, the statement reads,  the deliberate targeting of media institutions exposes the true nature of this so-called movement—one that seeks to silence independent journalism and erode democratic values. History has shown that the press is always the first target of autocracy, and we remain resolute in our opposition to any form of authoritarianism.

The media played a pivotal role in Nepal’s People’s Movement of 2062/63 (2006), helping shape the path toward a republic. It is clear that Annapurna Media Network was attacked precisely because of our unwavering commitment to democracy. We will not stand idly by as any force attempts to undermine the values we uphold, the statement says. 

The statement further says: “In a democracy, every citizen has the right to engage in politics, seek governance, and shape public opinion. However, these rights must be exercised peacefully and within the bounds of the law. No one is above the democratic system, and violence has no place in political discourse.” 

Annapurna Media Network has always been at the forefront of safeguarding democracy and ensuring political accountability. No amount of intimidation will deter us from our mission. We firmly believe that democracy and republicanism are the ultimate guarantors of press freedom, human rights, and civil liberties, the statement reads.   We urge the government to conduct a swift and thorough investigation into this attack and the tragic death of Suresh Rajak. Those responsible must be held accountable to ensure justice, protect press freedom, and uphold the rule of law, the statement says.

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has formed a seven-member team to probe the killing of a journalist and attack on media houses during a demonstration at Tinkune, Kathmandu on Friday.

The seven-member study team has been formed under the coordination of FNJ Vice Chair Umid Bagchand. Decision to this was taken by the central committee meeting of the FNJ attended by the office bearers and central members available in the federal capital. 

The team comprises the members as Ramesh Khatiwada, Prakash Dhaulakoti, Soni Sharma, Ashok Tiwari, Baikuntha Parajuli and Sabi Priyasan.

Coordinator Bagchand said that the team was visiting the media houses today itself. It would discuss with victims, witnesses, fellow media persons and families of the victim journalists. The probe team will prepare a report on how the incidents occurred, and how the FNJ would take these incidents, furnishing necessary suggestions. 

The supporters of former-king had a demonstration at Tinkune on Friday, which later turned into violent mob, setting on fire the nearby private buildings and damaging the structures. 

The photojournalist Suresh Rajak lost his life while he was covering the protest from a building which was set on fire by the protestors. The demonstrators also attacked the offices of Kantipur Television, and the Annapurna Post daily.

FNJ decries atrocities on media

Kathmandu, March 29: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) would have been celebrating its 70th anniversary in a different way today if Friday's demonstration by the supporters of the ex-king had not turned violent, causing human casualties and damaging property.

But the shock wave ran high among the media fraternity with the death of an on-duty photo journalist Suresh Rajak in the fire set on a private building at Tinkune, Kathmandu on Friday. Rajak, 29, was associated with the Avenues Television. He was taking photos and videos from the building near Tinkune, where the demonstration was held.

As a result, the agitated and grief-stricken FNJ had to cancel the schedules of a rally, health camps and other official events to mark its 70th establishment day, but to organize a mourning gathering protesting the killing of journalist Rajak at Maitighar Mandal. 

A large number of journalists gathered at Maitighar early this morning, paid tributes to Rajak and condemned attacks on media houses. 

FNJ Central General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal said, "It is highly deplorable that the journalist met with a situation to die in a planned fire. The FNJ decries it. We conclude that it is gross and condemnable, against press freedom, the assault on the entire press." 

He dubbed the incident a culture of undemocratic forces. 

Voicing the need to bring those responsible for the inhumane incident to justice, Dahal said the FNJ will be meeting the authorities very soon with its demand in writing on the case.  "The safety of media persons is the first priority of FNJ and it will be making no compromise on it." 

FNJ Secretary Soni Sharma expressed her dismay, stating that it was heartbreaking that the so-called pro-monarch demonstration on Friday resulted in the death of journalist Rajak. "We demand an end to all forms of threats against the media and journalists with full guarantees for press freedom, freedom of opinion, and justice to the slain journalist," she said. Sharma stressed that journalists deserve a safe environment to report without fear or any threats.

Journalist Choodamani Koirala blamed both the State and the so-called leaders of the demonstration for Rajak’s tragic death. "Journalists are often the first targets in any protest linked to any 'ism,' and yesterday's event is a testament to that culture," he said.

Journalist Archana Jha called it an 'intentional killing' and demanded that such an incident won't reoccur under any circumstances.

Former FNJ Chair Bipul Pokhrel, who visited the site to express solidarity, stated that the media is often targeted by those aspiring for political power. "This is a global and common challenge for media and journalists," he said. 

Pokhrel expressed his shock over the Friday incident, remarking that there are basic norms and standards for organizing protests, but the demonstration on Friday deviated from these. "The supremacy of press freedom is crucial even during the movements and agitations for the socialization of the agenda. Attacks on the press and journalists hinder the spread and institutionalization of the agenda  of any protest, agitation or movement," he added.

FNJ Central Member Manuka Kunwar argued that it would be still less how much we protest the killing of a journalist. "It is also the State's failure to ensure the safe rescue of a journalist trapped in the fire," she said. Kunwar added that until the State fails to own up  responsibility for the safety of journalists, their physical and professional security will remain at risk.

FNJ Corporate Province Secretary Ramesh Tamata stated, "When politics is driven by self-interest and the greed for power, the truth is suppressed, and journalists, who are responsible for revealing the truth, become the first targets of such protests. History supports this assertion."

In addition to the killing of Rajak, demonstrators also vandalized the Annapurna Media Group building at Tinkune, set it on fire, attempted a forced entry into the Kantipur Television building, and threw stones, causing terror in the newsroom. A vehicle owned by Himalayan Television was also damaged.

The FNJ is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting today to determine further protest actions and meet with the line minister.

The Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce (FNCCI) and the Federation of Nepali Industry and Entrepreneurship have condemned the violent incidents perpetrated at Tinkune on Friday, and demanded proper compensation for the damages caused.

Releasing separate press statements, both business entities demanded stringent action against those involved in the violence. Although everyone has the right to organize and participate in peaceful demonstrations with demands, they must not violate the rights of citizens and industrialists to carry on their business. 

The business entities said their attention was drawn seriously towards the attack on private and public property, looting and arson.

 "The loot, arson and attack on private property and loss of human life are condemnable," the FNCCI wrote. 

Similarly, another Federation appealed to all sides concerned to create a free and fair atmosphere to run business. The criminal activities orchestrated at Tinkune and Koteshwor area on Friday are deplorable, it added. 

The business entities must not be damaged and nor the industrialists attacked, they said, reminding that such activities dent the national economy. 

Both of them demanded the government that it took stringent action against those involved in the crime. Similarly, the Federation urged all industrialists and entrepreneurs to stand together for protect and strengthen the republic.

Tributes have been paid to photo journalist Suresh Rajak, who died in the violent protests of pro-monarchy supporters in Tinkune of Kathmandu on Friday.

A demonstration was held at Maitighar this morning under the leadership of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, calling for an investigation to find the truth about the unfortunate death of journalist Rajak and strict action against the culprits.

Rajak, a camera person for Avenues Television, was found burnt inside a building that was allegedly set on fire by the protestors in Teenkune.

At the program, Federation of Nepali Journalists Acting President Deepak Acharya expressed the commitment that the Federation will work to bring justice to the deceased journalist Rajak. He also stressed that all journalists should unite to protect the lives and property of journalists. 

Former presidents of the Federation Taranath Dahal, Dharmendra Jha, Shiva Gaunle, and others were present at the protest along with other journalists who demanded justice for journalist Rajak and compensation for the bereaved family.

Meanwhile, all the programs scheduled to be held to mark the FNJ's Establishment Day have been postponed and the protest has been launched, said Ram Krishna Adhikari, the central treasurer of the Federation.

Accordingly, the Federation will hold an emergency meeting of its central members today to decide on further programs and meet the Minister of Communications and Information Technology to submit a memorandum.