Journalist Shrestha released after artist Panta agrees to approach Press Council

Summary

Journalist Kishor Shrestha was released after artist and Rastriya Swatantra Party leader Himesh Panta agreed to pursue his complaint through the Press Council Nepal. The arrest has drawn criticism from journalists and press groups, who say media disputes should not be handled as cybercrime cases.

Key Points
  • Kishor Shrestha, chairman and editor of Jana Aastha weekly, was released after talks between the two sides.
  • Himesh Panta agreed to approach the Press Council Nepal if he remains dissatisfied with the published report.
  • The arrest sparked criticism of police and the government, with journalists saying the Cyber Bureau had overstepped its role.
  • The Federation of Nepali Journalists condemned the detention and said disputes over published content should be handled through the Press Council, not criminal proceedings.
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