Journalist threatened with physical violence by lawyer irate over coverage

ALERT - NEPAL

26 August 2008

Journalist threatened with physical violence by lawyer irate over coverage

SOURCE: Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), Kathmandu

(FNJ/IFEX) - Ananta Raj Luintel, reporter of “The Himalayan Times” daily, was threatened by Charles Sobhraj’s defence lawyer, Laxmi Devkota, on 18 August 2008 at the premises of the Supreme Court in Singhdurbar, Kathmandu.

According to “The Himalayan Times”, Devkota threatened to use physical violence against the journalist if he continues to write news about either Sobhraj or about Devkota’s association with the Maoist party and Sobhraj’s family. Devkota is the wife of Maoist Constituent Assembly member Khim Lal Devkota. She also said that the party will investigate and take action against the journalist.

FNJ denounced the threat against the journalist, saying it was particularly reprehensible given that it was from a lawyer. FNJ urged Devkota and her client not to interfere with the journalist’s performance of his duties, and asked them to follow due process in the event that they disapprove of the news published.

For further information contact Saru Subedi, Media Monitor, FNJ, Media Village, Tilganga, Kathmandu, Nepal, tel: +977 1 411 2763 / 2673, fax: +977 1 411 2785, e-mail: fnjnepal mail.com.np, mediamonitor fnjnepal.org, Internet: http://www.fnjnepal.org

The information contained in this alert is the sole responsibility of FNJ. In citing this material for broadcast or publication, please credit FNJ.

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