Hundreds of journalists joined in a rally organised by the Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) in Katmandu to protest the killing of journalist Shah in captivity. The protesting journalists also chanted slogans against frequent attacks on journalists by the Maoists.
Addressing a gathering after the rally, representatives of various media groups demanded immediate action against the murderers, proper compensation to Shah’s family and public apology from the Maoist leadership for the act of their cadres.
Press Chautari Nepal and Press Union jointly enforced a daylong bandh (shutdown strike) in Nuwakot district to protest the killing of Shah. Marketplace and transport services remained closed in district headquarters Bidur due to the journalists' protest. There were reports of similar protests in several places around the country.
On Tuesday morning, all independent FM radios observed two minutes of mourning at 7 am in the morning, as their show of solidarity and protest.
The report of Shah's murder was established after a probe panel formed by the Maoists stated, on Monday, that he was killed the same day he was abducted on October 5.
"A committed journalist who was working for justice has been killed. Had the Maoists and the government taken the news of his abduction seriously immediately after we broadcast the news, Shah might not have been killed," said Bishnu Hari Dhakal, managing director of Nepal FM.
Shah was a Bara-based correspondent for Nepal FM as well as Avenues television. The Avenues Television has announced that it has set up Birendra Shah Television Journalism Award in his memory. The Television has also decided to provide Rs 100,000 as relief compensation to Shah's family.
Meanwhile, Broadcasting Association of Nepal (BAN), Karnali Press Association (KPA), Nepal FM 91.8, Mechi Makali Media Society, Press Chautari Nepal, Nepal Press Union, Reporters' Club and many other media organisations have condemned the murder of journalist Shah.
Various media organisations have demonstrated against the Maoists across the country. Transportation in Bara and Lahan have been obstructed due to the demonstration by the journalists demanding stern action against the culprits, apology from the Maoists with assurances that such incidents will not occur in the future and compensation to the bereaved family. nepalnews.com sd/ia Nov 06 07
