The Press Chautari Nepal has voiced its concern about the police writing to editors of five media outlets for clarification in relation to news.

The Metropolitan Police Range, Kathmandu has recently reportedly asked editors of five media houses (Roshan Khadka of Kathmandupati.com, Rabi Dhami of Muldhar news.com, Madan Babu Bhandari of Sushasan.com, Khilanath Dhakal of Shuvadin.com and Roshan Pandey of Janaprahar Saptahik.com) to clarify and provide the source of news disseminated through their media on the issue related to newly elected parliamentary member and former Deputy Inspector General of Police Nawaraj Silwal.

The police have also reportedly directed tracking a year's call history and details of mobile phones belonging to the editors.

A statement released by Chautari's General Secretary Rajesh Rai on Sunday said the police move has encroached on press freedom and freedom of expression. "This police act has also undermined the rule of law and constitutional system by interfering in a subject that falls under the purview of Press Council Nepal," the statement said.

It has also demanded correction of the police move and a free and fearless environment for the journalists to perform their duties. RSS