Journalist Kishor Shrestha released by Supreme Court after arrest

Journalist Kishor Shrestha, editor of Jana Aastha, was released on personal bond following a Supreme Court order after being arrested in connection with a report involving Deputy Speaker Ruby Kumari Thakur. The case originated from a report and photograph concerning lawmaker Amarkant Chaudhary, which led to allegations of defamation and cybercrime.

During the investigation, police raided Shrestha’s office and residence, confiscating electronic devices. Shrestha has claimed he was targeted by the state to suppress investigative reporting and to identify confidential sources. He characterized the police actions as an attempt to exert psychological pressure.

The Supreme Court’s ruling emphasized that journalists cannot be arrested solely for publishing news, nor can their property be searched without valid warrants. While noting that public figures have limited privacy regarding matters of public interest, the court observed that the photograph in question had already been shared on social media by the complainant herself.