Police cite PMO concerns to justify summoning journalists
Summary
Nepal Police said it summoned journalists over concerns raised by the Prime Minister’s Office about reports and messages critical of the force. The move sparked widespread criticism, while the PMO denied involvement and said Prime Minister Balendra Shah ordered the journalists’ immediate release.
Key Points
- Nepal Police said its Cyber Bureau called journalists to seek information about reports and messages critical of the force after concerns raised by the Prime Minister’s Office.
- Plainclothes officers detained Bishwamani Subedi, Shobharaj Baral, Dhiraj Basnet and tried to take Navaraj Mainali into custody from his newsroom.
- The Prime Minister’s Office denied any prior knowledge or involvement and said Balendra Shah ordered the journalists released immediately.
- The ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party also criticized the police action, while police said they remain committed to press freedom.
