February 2, 2026 

The Federation of Nepali Journalists has drawn serious attention to the incident of defamation and threats against some media outlets in Sindhupalchowk district regarding the news published/broadcast.

The Federation Sindhupalchowk branch has stated that journalists and media outlets in Sindhupalchowk have been subjected to various defamation and direct threats of action through video material regarding the news items published recently on the subject of abuse, violence and irregularities in public bodies.

It is the constitutional right of journalists to collect news on any subject. While exercising that right, there is a prevailing provision that if a journalist is dissatisfied with the news items communicated or has a complaint, he can file a complaint with the Press Council Nepal or seek legal redress.

The Federation believes that the recent developments happening to journalists and media outlets in Sindhupalchowk, ignoring that, are not only highly condemnable but also a direct attack on the freedom of the press and expression.

The Federation demands that the local administration investigate the incident and take legal action against those involved in such acts, respect the freedom of the press and expression guaranteed by the constitution, and take strict steps to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.

The journalist code of conduct is an important basis for professional journalism. Therefore, the Federation urges all concerned media personnel and media outlets to disseminate news and information in a factual, impartial and dignified manner, while maintaining the professional dignity of journalism within the scope of the journalist code of conduct.

……………….
Ram Prasad Dahal
Secretary General