KMG Chairman Sirohiya alleges strategic intervention in media

KATHMANDU, May 21: Kailash Sirohiya, chairman of Kantipur Media Group, has issued a statement alleging that the arrest warrant against him is an attempt to stop news reporting and divert attention from the cooperative fraud case that the media house has been covering. He affirmed his readiness to cooperate with the investigation.

Sirohiya's statement comes after the District Police Office in Dhanusha obtained an arrest warrant from the District Court regarding a citizenship dispute.

In his statement, Sirohiya said, "As a responsible citizen, I am fully prepared to cooperate with any investigation conducted according to the law. However, Kantipur Media Group, under my chairmanship, will not be deterred by any retaliation or interference stemming from the misuse of state power. In the past, Kantipur has faced similar interventions, including my own imprisonment. Whether during the autocratic monarchy or the tenure of Lokman Singh Karki, such conspiracies have targeted Kantipur for its reporting. Yet, Kantipur has always stood fearless. I am personally prepared to pay any price, but Kantipur will not compromise on its editorial freedom and responsibility."

He emphasized that it is the duty of any media outlet to call for investigation and action against those committing fraud to protect the hard-earned money of 7.1 million cooperative members and depositors. Sirohiya claimed there is no doubt that a complaint was filed against him and an arrest warrant was issued without even conducting an inquiry, in an attempt to blackmail and divert attention from the main issue. He asserted that Kantipur will not back down from its duty of reporting on cooperative fraud and other irregularities.

The statement reads, "Officials who misuse police power and authority for personal retaliation against the chairman of a media house for writing news should also consider this: When will there be an investigation into the issue of dual passports, where instead of a proper investigation, the Office of the Attorney General decided to dismiss the case, allowing political bargaining to secure power?”He added that the government, every responsible state institution, political party, civil society, and all conscious Nepalis must exercise discretion. "Kantipur's reporting remains consistent even amidst the misuse of state power and resources. This is Kantipur's identity and legacy," the statement reads.