The Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) today condemned the threat against nearly a dozen journalists by Maoist cadres in Itahari, Sunsari district.

In a press statement, the FNJ said it was seriously concerned over the threat against journalists Salik Ram Pandey, Arjun Sharma, Amar Khadka, Shekhar Adhikari, Krishna Bhattrai, Chetan Dhamala, Santosh Yadav and Anil Adhikari by Maoist cadres including Ritesh Shrestha over a news report published in a local newspaper, Itahari Weekly.

At a programme organised in Itahari yesterday to discuss the ways to check vulgar shows in local dance bars, Maoist cadres had threatened to “finish off” the reporters for publishing the news report which they said had criticised their party.

“FNJ condemns such an irresponsible act of the workers of a political party which is poised to take up the responsibility of governance by joining the government. While disputes could be sorted out legally or through negotiation such a reaction is a direct attack on the free press,” the release issued by FNJ general secretary Mahendra Bista stated.

Calling for immediate investigation into the incident and reveal their official position regarding the case, the federation urged the Maoists to commit not to repeat such acts in future.

The media body also demanded that the government create an environment whereby journalist could be safe and be able to enjoy press freedom.