FNJ condemns Far West law secretary Subedi’s statement undermining press freedom
Dhangadhi: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), Sudurpaschim Province Committee, has strongly objected to a recent social media post made by Liladhar Subedi, Law Secretary of the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers under the Far West Province Government, calling it an attack on press freedom.
Secretary Subedi had shared a link to a news article published in Annapurna Post and Ebigul.com on social media, accompanied by a remark stating, "Happy Press Freedom Day to journalists and media houses who write news for money." The FNJ has condemned the comment, labeling it a calculated insult to journalism and a mockery of press freedom.
In an official press release issued on Friday, FNJ Sudurpaschim Province President Bharat Shah stated that while Secretary Subedi has the legal right to disagree with media reports concerning him, it is entirely unacceptable for a senior civil servant to disparage the entire journalism sector. “If Secretary Subedi has evidence that a journalist has written news for money, then it can be brought to the Federation, where necessary investigation and action can be taken,” the statement read.
The Federation emphasized that such remarks by a high-ranking official not only breach the civil service code of conduct but also cast doubt on the integrity and neutrality of the bureaucracy.
Furthermore, the FNJ accused Secretary Subedi of previously making politically charged statements via social media and warned him against repeating such behavior. The statement also called upon the Sudurpaschim Province Government to take appropriate action against officials like Subedi who, while in public service, behave in ways deemed undignified.
The Federation has also indicated that it may escalate its response by launching additional protest programs to safeguard press freedom and uphold the dignity of journalism in the province.
Dineshkhabar Desk