The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has said that intimidation, harassment, attacks and detention of media professionals, particularly in the districts, continue unabated in Nepal.

In its annual report on the situation of press freedom worldwide on the occasion of press freedom day on Wednesday, IFJ has criticized the action of then then royal government to culminate the existence of free and independent media bodies in Nepal.

“Private and community FM radio stations bore the brunt of the government’s attempt to prevent independent news from being aired across the geographically challenged country, to a largely non-literate population,” the report said.

The report further said, “Journalists faced continuous threats from Chief District Officers (CDO) and security personnel for writing news regarding conflict and government policies and actions. Hundreds of journalists were arrested and detained for varying lengths of time.”

The report also state the journalists have been subject to threat and harassment by Maoists, though such actions has reduced, especially after the understanding reached with the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) in November 2005.

The IFJ has said the government’s attempt to form Media Council and Broadcasting Authority were measures meant to increase control over all forms media including broadcasting and online journalism. The report further stated the government tried to promote pro-king media through misuse of state fund.

IFJ was one of the members of International Media Mission that visited to Nepal three months ago to reviews the state of press freedom in Nepal after the royal takeover of February 1, 2005.