Date: May 29, 2026 

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) expresses its serious concern over the physical assault and injury of Chintamani Kandel, the editor of Darshankhabar.com, by construction entrepreneur Suraj Thapa.

According to the FNJ Karnali Province Committee, the attack took place on May 26 in Surkhet, after Kandel questioned whether a road under construction complied with municipal standards. As a result of the assault, Kandel suffered a ruptured left eardrum.

The Federation wishes injured journalist Kandel a speedy recovery.

The Federation strongly condemns this attack, which took place while he was fulfilling his professional duty, and views it as a crime against the practice of independent journalism.

The Federation demands that the relevant authorities investigate the incident, take necessary legal action against the perpetrator, and ensure a free and safe environment for journalism.

Ram Prasad Dahal

General Secretary