Report on Journalist Suresh Bhul’s Murder Released; Demands for Justice Intensify

The National Dalit Journalists Association, Nepal, has released an investigative report on the murder of journalist Suresh Bhul from Kailali, revealing that his death resulted from a premeditated attack. The report was presented during a program attended by Dalit leaders, human rights activists, and journalists.

Journalist Bhul, a resident of Kantipur, Gauriganga Municipality-11, Kailali, was accused of goat theft by locals and brutally beaten by a mob. He succumbed to his injuries during treatment on Kartik 24. The report highlights that despite being fined Rs 30,000 on baseless theft charges and later proven innocent, Bhul was attacked in what the association termed a “planned killing.”

National Dalit Journalists Association President Binod Pahadi, also a former Constituent Assembly member, emphasized the deliberate nature of the attack. "Although the goat was found tied near his shop, and Bhul had complied with local accusations by paying a fine, he was still targeted and beaten to death. This incident appears orchestrated," Pahadi said.

The study was initiated after delays by the police in apprehending those involved. A team led by Pahadi visited the site, conducted a field investigation, and protested at police and district administration offices, demanding accountability.

BBC journalist and President of the National Federation of Right to Information, Umid Bagchand, noted that Bhul had been actively reporting on public institutions. Bagchand suggested that Bhul’s murder may have been motivated by personal vendettas against his reporting.

The association has called for:

1. A comprehensive investigation into the murder.
2. Strict action against the culprits.
3. Immediate relief and judicial compensation for Bhul’s family.

Following the victim’s family’s complaint, police arrested seven suspects: Jang Bahadur Bhul, Bishal BK, Dinesh BK, Dinesh Bhul, Bisna Bhul, Rama Rawal, and Dharmasinh BK of Gauriganga Municipality-11. Another suspect, Pawan Bogati of Gauriganga Municipality-9, remains absconding.

President Pahadi expressed dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the case, stating, "This is a tragic and unjust incident. The negligence of the police raises serious doubts about justice being served. We demand swift action, justice for Bhul, and compensation for his grieving family."

Journalist Bhul served as the Kailali District Joint Secretary of the association, and his murder has sparked widespread outrage, intensifying demands for justice and accountability.