KATHMANDU, Feb 22: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has expressed concern over recent developments regarding news coverage of the dispute between the Pathibhara (Mukkumlung) Cable Car Project and the ‘No Cable Car group’ in Taplejung.
The FNJ urged all parties to respect journalists' right to freely exercise press freedom as ensured by the constitution. It condemned any mistreatment or unnecessary pressure on journalists, calling such actions regrettable and interference in press freedom and professional journalism.
The FNJ has called on the concerned parties to take serious measures to prevent such incidents, respect the constitutional rights of the press, and create a conducive environment for journalists to gather and report news freely.
The FNJ emphasized, "The Code of Conduct for Journalists forms a crucial foundation for professional journalism." It urged all journalists and media outlets to maintain journalistic integrity by following the code of conduct, upholding professionalism, and ensuring factual, impartial, and responsible news reporting.
The FNJ also urged journalists to report news without exaggerating the subject matter and to adhere to journalistic values. Additionally, it called on them to prioritize safety while fulfilling their professional duties.
The FNJ urged all parties to resolve the dispute between the Cable Car Project and the No Cable Car group through dialogue, discussion, and mutual understanding, following established practices. It called on the concerned parties to take the initiative and appealed to journalists to promote such efforts, according to its statement.