Media Action Nepal demands immediate action against perpetrators following the brutal killing of journalist Suresh Rajak
KATHMANDU | March 28 : Media Action Nepal expresses its deepest sorrow and outrage at the tragic death of Suresh Rajak, a cameraman at Avenues Television, who was killed today (March 28) in a brutal fire set during a violent protest in Tinkune of Kathmandu.
“We demand immediate action to bring those responsible for this barbaric act to justice. Such violence against media personnel is intolerable, and it is imperative that the authorities take swift and decisive measures to ensure the safety of journalists,” said Laxman Datt Pant, Executive Director of Media Action Nepal. This tragedy highlights the complete neglect of security forces in maintaining order and protecting the public, Pant added.
On the afternoon of March 28, 2025, during a protest led by royalists, a building known as Marble House was set on fire after being targeted by the demonstrators, who had clashed with police. Suresh Rajak was covering the event and was on the roof of the building, filming for Avenues Television when the building was set ablaze. His body was found inside the building, severely burned and beyond recognition, raising serious concerns over the violence inflicted during the protest.
Kedar Koirala, the news chief at Avenues Television, confirmed the death of Suresh Rajak, expressing that this is a very tragic incident. “We are heartbroken by his death, and this is not merely an attack on our colleague, but an assault on press freedom itself,” Koirala stated to Media Action Nepal.
In another incident, Rajesh Gurung, a photojournalist with The Himalayan Times, was injured by rubber bullets during the protest. He sustained injuries to his thigh and foot while covering the demonstrations in the Tinkune area of Kathmandu. Gurung was admitted to Kantipur Hospital, where he was prescribed six types of antibiotics for his treatment.
Media Action Nepal unequivocally condemns these acts of violence. We call for an immediate and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators of the heinous crime to justice. These incidents highlight a complete failure of security, and it is imperative that the Home Minister and the authorities take responsibility for the failure to protect journalists working in dangerous situations.
Featured Photo: A screenshot from Avenues TV’s live broadcast showing the building where journalist Rajak was found dead
