CHR-N says brutal attacks, intimidation against journos signal grave situation of impunity in Nepal

HCHR-N says brutal attacks, intimidation against journos signal grave situation of impunity in Nepal

Head of the United Nations Office of the High Commission for Human Rights in Nepal (OHCHR-N) Jyoti Sanghera has expressed concern over the grave situation of impunity in Nepal.

“The recent brutal attacks and intimidation reported against journalists, and even the police as well as their families, are indicative of the grave situation of impunity in Nepal, “ Sanghera said at a press briefing organised Thursday after the end of her two-day visit in eastern Nepal town of Biratnagar . “I have been told that people are able to make threats and use violence because they know that they will not be punished nor be held accountable.”

The objective of her visit to Biratngar was to recognise and support the efforts made by journalists, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), human rights defenders and the authorities in Morang district to protect journalists and their right to freedom of expression.

“One of the serious concerns repeatedly raised during my visit is the growth of pervasive and widespread impunity. Impunity for Violence against Women (VAW), impunity for human rights violations and impunity for violent crime,” she added.

The chief of OHCHR-N, however, praised the courage of all those including journalists who, despite the evident dangers, are willing to speak out, appreciating the strength of their conviction that the only way to have crimes addressed is through the rule of law.

“Many of those we have spoken with agree on the importance of fostering an impartial environment in which the police and the justice system can function without interference – including to protect victims from further threats, and to punish individuals found to have violated the law,” she said, adding that OHCHR also supports the concerns voiced recently by a delegation of senior editors to the Prime Minister, about the seriousness of the threats to journalists and to freedom of expression.

Sanghera also expressed satisfaction with the professionalism displayed by the Nepal Police in its response to the recent threats and attacks directed at journalists.

“Unfortunately many here have also told me that political forces are protecting the criminals and sheltering the perpetrators,” she added. She also welcomed the recent remarks by key political actors voicing support for the rule of law and promising to prevent interference by political affiliates in criminal cases presently under review.

“It is very important that criminal allegations are addressed through the due process of the law. Indeed that is what so many Nepalis are calling for,” said the OHCHR head. nepalnews.com

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