Kathmandu-Five major journalists' organisations, including the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), have expressed serious concern over an interim order issued by the Kathmandu District Court directing the removal of news reports related to Cimex Inc Pvt Ltd, the authorised distributor of BYD electric vehicles in Nepal, and prohibiting further publication or broadcast of such reports.

The FNJ, Nepal Press Union, Online Journalists Association, Press Centre Nepal, and Press Chautari Nepal issued separate statements, saying the court's order could undermine press freedom, freedom of expression, the public's right to information, and independent journalism.

The FNJ said the order to remove content published by Biznessnews.com conflicts with the Code of Journalistic Ethics 2016, which states that online content should not be removed unless absolutely necessary. The federation argued that the court ordered the removal without first verifying the accuracy of the reports. It said the decision interferes with independent journalism and could increase the risk of destroying evidence.

The Nepal Press Union said ordering the removal of news reports before the case reaches a final verdict goes against the basic principles of due process. The union noted that in a democratic system, parties who disagree with a report can seek corrections, clarifications, or other legal remedies.

Press Centre Nepal urged the Kathmandu District Court to reconsider its order. The Online Journalists Association described the decision as an order that could lead to the destruction of evidence. It said the order could weaken the provisions of the journalists' code of conduct and recalled that similar orders in the past were eventually overturned.

Press Chautari Nepal said the interim order banning the publication and broadcast of reports and requiring the removal of already published content is a direct interference with press freedom, constitutional values, and democratic principles. It argued that the constitutional and legal authority to make an initial assessment of disputed media content rests with the Press Council Nepal.

All five organisations called for the protection of press freedom, freedom of expression, and citizens' right to information within the framework of the Constitution and the law.