Date: July 31, 2026

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) expresses deep grief over the tragic loss of three lives during demonstrations and clashes in Sunsari and various other districts. The Federation extends its heartfelt condolences to the deceased, expresses deep sympathies to the bereaved families, and wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Nepal is a country enriched with multi-religious, multicultural, multilingual, and multiethnic diversity. Unity, coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect amidst this diversity are the distinct identity of Nepali society and the foundation of national strength. Nepali society carries a glorious tradition of maintaining mutual trust and harmony among diverse faiths, cultures, and communities for centuries. Any activity that weakens this tradition could adversely impact national unity, social harmony, and democratic values.

The Federation of Nepali Journalists expresses serious concern over the recent series of events starting from Dewanganj in Sunsari and the resulting situation created by developments in various other places. In such a sensitive state, ensuring the protection of citizens' lives, property, and fundamental rights is the primary duty of the state. Furthermore, to maintain social harmony, religious tolerance, and a peaceful environment, it is imperative that all political parties, religious communities, civil society, media, and general citizens exercise a high level of responsibility and restraint.

The Federation earnestly appeals to all parties to observe maximum restraint and completely refrain from hate speech, provocative publicity that encourages rumors, division, and violence, as well as the dissemination of misleading and unverified content through social media. The Federation firmly believes that the resolution to any disagreement or dispute is possible not through violence, vandalism, retaliation, or hatred, but only through the constitution, legal processes, dialogue, and democratic methods.

In this sensitive situation, the role of media organizations and journalists becomes even more critical, responsible, and sensitive. The Federation feels that the media sector must play a special role in fostering social harmony, peace, and public trust through the dissemination of truthful, factual, and balanced information. Therefore, the Federation urges all journalists, media workers, and news outlets to fulfill their professional duties while upholding high professional conduct and fully adhering to established journalistic principles and code of ethics.

Furthermore, the Federation strongly urges the Government of Nepal and all relevant authorities to ensure an environment where journalists and media organizations involved in news collection, editing, and dissemination can carry out their professional duties safely and independently without any fear, obstruction, or interference, and to prevent any censorship or restriction on press and freedom of expression.

The Federation demands that the Government of Nepal conduct an impartial, independent, and effective investigation into the incident, take legal action against the perpetrators, provide appropriate compensation, relief, and justice to the victimized families, and effectively ensure the safety of citizens' lives, property, and constitutional rights. Additionally, the Federation appeals to all concerned parties to immediately and effectively advance necessary dialogue, coordination, and trust-building efforts to strengthen religious tolerance, social harmony, and community trust.

The Federation draws the serious attention of the Government of Nepal to strictly adhere to the complete respect for human rights, compliance with the rule of law, and the principle of minimum force during security management in sensitive areas.

Once again, the Federation urges all parties to present themselves with restraint, tolerance, mutual respect, and responsibility to contribute toward social harmony, national unity, and lasting peace.

Deepak Acharya

Acting President