The Annapurna Media Network has condemned the vandalism and arson of media outlets, including Annapurna, by chaotic, unruly and uncontrollable groups that emerged in the name of the 'royalist movement'.
The Annapurna Media Network strongly condemned the death of Suresh Rajak, camera person of Kantipur TV, Avenues TV along with Annapurna.
Issuing a statement, Annapurna Media Network Chairman Rameshwar Thapa, Editor-in-Chief of Annapurna Post, Editor of Annapurna Express Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Editor of Annapurna Post. Com Sambhu Kattel, Editor of Radio Annapurna 94. 0 Megahertz and News Chief of AP1 TV Dipendra Bantawa demanded that those involved in vandalism and arson be brought to book.
“This protest has shown that the media is the first target of absolutism. Protesting every kind of absolutism, we will stand firm in support of democracy,” they said in the statement.
“Media has played an active, vital and powerful role in the 2005/ 2006 movement to draw the line of republic. Annapurna Media Network cannot remain a mute spectator to any kind of activities that undermines democracy. We believe that the protesters targeted Annapurna Media for the same reason,” they further said.
They said that democracy and the Constitution do not prevent Nepali citizens from practicing politics and gaining public support. In addition to that, they said that no one is allowed to go beyond the democratic system.
“Annapurna Media Network has always been at the forefront of protecting and promoting democracy. We will not be distracted by obstacles,” the statement reads. “The only alternative to democracy is advanced democracy. The only alternative to a republic is a prosperous republic. Freedom of the press and expression, human rights, and people’s sovereignty are possible only in democracy. The disruption to that is condemnable.”
“Lastly, we urge the government to carry out an investigation into the death of camera person Suresh Rajak and an attack on Annapurna Media Network with a malicious intent to take the lives of journalists.”
