Kathmandu, July 14 (HS): Nepal's ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has expressed serious concern over the parking of suspicious vehicles outside the offices of several media organisations, describing the incidents as attempts to intimidate journalists and undermine press freedom.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, RSP General Secretary Bipin Kumar Acharya said the presence of unidentified vehicles outside media houses appeared to be an unacceptable attempt to create fear and exert psychological pressure on journalists.

Reaffirming the party's commitment to press freedom, citizens' right to information and independent journalism, the RSP said any attempt to interfere with media independence, intimidate journalists or weaken the role of the press as the fourth pillar of democracy would not be tolerated.

Free and fearless journalism is the lifeline of democracy, the statement said, condemning all acts aimed at intimidating the media.

The party urged the government, the Ministry of Home Affairs and security agencies to conduct an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the incidents, ensure the physical and psychological safety of media personnel and institutions, identify those responsible and initiate legal action against them.

The RSP also appealed to journalists to continue reporting fearlessly and objectively without yielding to any form of pressure or intimidation, reiterating its support for their safety and press freedom.

On Monday, unidentified persons allegedly parked vehicles outside the main entrances of several leading media organisations in Nepal. While the move reportedly drew criticism from across political and media circles, some individuals considered close to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Home Minister Sudan Gurung were reported to have defended the action. Amid criticism over the alleged involvement of some persons linked to the party, the RSP issued the statement clarifying its position.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar