Kathmandu, Aug 14

Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC) has demanded investigation into the death of Assistant Editor of Kantipur daily, Balaram Baniya. Issuing a condolence message on Thursday evening, NTUC general secretary Yogendra Kunwar called for a fair investigation into the circumstances leading to the untimely demise of journalist Baniya, also the general convention representative of the Nepal Press Union.

The unnatural death of an established journalist has raised doubts so it needs to be investigated, stated the message. “The dead body of journalist Baniya who remained out of contact for three days was found near the hydropower project area in Makawanpur district and his identification was made through a photo. These circumstances have raised several questions regarding the demise of the journalist”, Kunwar said.

NTUC further said the incident could not be considered natural as the passing away of a journalist with honesty and integrity crusading against lawlessness and corruption in the country was shrouded in mystery. NTUC has demanded the government undertake investigation into all the questions emerged regarding the death of journalist Baniya and reveal the truth of the incident.

The trade union congress also has paid tribute to the late Baniya and expressed deep condolence to the grief-stricken family members.