Kathmandu, October 31, 2026: The SAARC Journalist Forum International (SJF) has strongly condemned the reported arrest and detention of Nepali journalists, expressing serious concern over what it describes as growing pressure on independent journalism and press freedom in Nepal.
In a press statement issued on October 31, the Forum expressed concern over the detention of journalists following police action on October 30, 2026. According to the statement, the journalists include Bishwa Mani Subedi of Nepal Press, Shobha Raj Baral of Motivate News, and Dhiraj Basnet of DNA Khabar.
The Forum also raised concerns over reports of police personnel entering media offices and newsrooms and attempting to take journalists into custody.
The SJF stated that journalism is a fundamental pillar of democracy, accountability and good governance. It emphasized that journalists must be able to investigate, question authorities and report matters of public interest without fear, intimidation or arbitrary arrest.
The Forum warned that the arrest, intimidation or harassment of journalists in connection with their professional reporting could create an atmosphere of fear and undermine the constitutional right to freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
It further emphasized that complaints or disagreements concerning published news reports should be addressed through established legal and professional mechanisms, including the Press Council Nepal, while respecting due process and media independence.
SJF Expresses Solidarity with Nepali Journalists
The SAARC Journalist Forum International expressed solidarity with the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), media organizations and the entire Nepali journalism fraternity in their efforts to defend press freedom and journalists’ professional rights.
The Forum called upon the Government of Nepal to uphold democratic values, protect independent journalism and ensure that journalists can perform their professional responsibilities freely and safely.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, Raju Lama, International President of the SAARC Journalist Forum, reiterated that a free press is not a threat to democracy but one of its strongest foundations.
He emphasized that protecting journalists and ensuring media freedom are essential responsibilities of every democratic government.
The Forum urged the concerned authorities to respect constitutional guarantees, follow due legal procedures and create an environment in which journalists can work without fear of retaliation or intimidation.
The SAARC Journalist Forum International reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting professional journalism and strengthening solidarity among journalists across South Asia.
