Unresolved Death: The Risky Terrain for Nepali Journalists

The Federation of Nepali Journalists is urging a high-level investigation into the suspicious death of TV journalist Suresh Rajak, who was found dead amid a violent protest in Kathmandu. The FNJ report highlights unanswered questions, circumstantial inconsistencies, and possible targeted attack, calling for urgent government intervention.

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has demanded urgent government action by establishing a high-level probe committee to thoroughly investigate the suspicious death of journalist Suresh Rajak. Rajak died during a pro-monarchist protest on March 28 in Kathmandu, raising concerns over journalists' safety in Nepal.

A seven-member FNJ committee led by vice-president Umid Prasad Bagchand revealed unanswered questions and inconsistencies surrounding Rajak's death in their report. His body was discovered in a building at Tinkune, which was torched during the protest. The FNJ's findings highlight potential criminal involvement, urging that suspects be formally identified as defendants in a homicide case.

The FNJ report has cast doubts on why Rajak didn't escape the burning building while others did, suggesting a targeted attack was possible. This prompted the federation to criticize both the government and media organizations for not ensuring the safety of journalists in hazardous conditions, emphasizing the need for protection and insurance.

(With inputs from agencies.)