KATHMANDU: The ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has expressed serious concern over suspicious vehicles being parked outside the offices of various media outlets, saying such activities aimed at creating psychological pressure on journalists violate democratic values.
Issuing a statement on Monday, RSP General Secretary Bipin Kumar Acharya said placing unidentified vehicles outside media houses was an unacceptable act intended to intimidate the press.
The party reiterated its commitment to press freedom, citizens’ right to information, and independent journalism, stating that any attempt to interfere with media freedom, create fear among journalists, or weaken the role of the press as the fourth pillar of democracy would not be tolerated.
“Free and fearless journalism is the lifeblood of democracy,” the statement said, condemning all activities intended to intimidate the media sector.
The RSP has urged the government, Ministry of Home Affairs, and security agencies to conduct an immediate, impartial investigation into the incident, ensure the physical and psychological security of media organizations, identify those involved, and take legal action.
The party also called on journalists to continue practicing fact-based journalism without succumbing to pressure or intimidation, reaffirming its support for journalists’ safety and complete press freedom.
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