Tika Bista was found in an unconscious state in a bush near her house on 8 December 2009.
(FNJ/IFEX) – Tika Bista, a councillor for the Federation of Nepali Journalists’ (FNJ) central committee and a member of FNJ Rukum District Chapter, was found in an unconscious state in a bush near her home by friends at around noon on 8 December 2009. A laptop and two mobile phones belonging to Bista were found damaged nearby. Documents written by the journalist were also scattered around the area. She sustained injuries to her head, leg and arms.
Bista received a threatening call on 29 November over an article she wrote in which she criticized the UCPN Maoist party. The call left her very disturbed.
Bista is undergoing treatment in Rukum District Hospital. Doctors at the hospital have referred her to Kathmandu for further treatment. The FNJ is making every attempt to comply with their recommendation.
Meanwhile, the FNJ is urging the local administration and the police to investigate the matter, uncover the facts and punish those responsible.