We Are Not the Fourth Estate – Journalist Kamal Prasai Shares His Views
News Summary
- Kamal Prasai was beaten by police and had his camera memory card stolen while covering the eviction of squatters.
- Despite the attack, Kamal stated on Facebook, “I am a journalist who gets beaten, but I am not at all discouraged,” reaffirming his dedication to journalism.
- The need for the state to manage squatter settlements within legal frameworks and with humanity was emphasized.
Among friends capturing an espresso shot, Kamal Prasai is currently undergoing nasal surgery at Bir Hospital. During tensions between police and the public at Manohara’s squatter settlement clearance, Kamal was reporting cautiously and responsibly.
On the evening of April 26 (Baisakh 12), the day after Democracy Day, amidst continuous rain, Kamal went to photograph the squatter settlement when some individuals assaulted him by snatching police batons and beat him, also stealing his camera’s memory card.
The news of Kamal’s assault saddens us, but the reactions on social media have caused even greater pain. Comments like “journalists deserved to be beaten more” have deeply wounded him—more profoundly than any physical injury.
On Facebook, Kamal wrote, “I am a journalist who gets beaten, but I am not discouraged in the slightest. Because I am hurt precisely because I portray the truth and turn the pages of society.”
“Our society has become one that mocks others’ suffering. Yet, without being disheartened, I am committed to giving this society a positive message through this profession and intend to continue.”
This brief expression from Kamal sheds light on many aspects of Nepalese press, governance, and society.
Why has our society started to mock and find pleasure in others’ suffering? This question is not Kamal’s alone but must be raised by all working in the civic domain.
The idea of viewing journalism and civil society as the fourth estate of the state is not new. In 1787, Edmund Burke described journalism in the British Parliament as the fourth estate, playing a role in holding governments accountable.
Since then, a global tradition has recognized journalism as the fourth estate.
However, we are not the opposition either, whose roles, rights, and duties are constitutionally defined. We independently raise questions and represent the citizens’ curiosity.
After more than 150 years of experience, we realize that we are not the fourth estate of the state. Just as parliament, government, and judiciary operate from their official places, we are not meant to occupy such a formal position.
Our primary association is with citizens, not the state.
Moreover, the state and government are not the same. In Nepal, there is a growing tendency to conflate the government as the state and thus to consider media as a government arm, which is erroneous.
Going forward, let us consider ourselves as part of the citizen community rather than the fourth estate and encourage others to do the same.
We are not opposition; we are independent voices of the citizens, addressing societal issues.
Kamal Prasai and other photojournalists documented harsh crackdowns during the Janatantra Andolan (People’s Movement). They captured videos and photos of destruction, arson, and looting at sensitive locations like Singha Durbar, Sheetal Niwas, and the Parliament.
Last year on March 29 (Chaitra 15), during a royalist demonstration, policeman Suresh Rajak was suspiciously killed while performing his duties. Deependra Dhungana from Naya Patrika survived a shooting incident.
Narendra Shrestha’s photo of burning Singha Durbar won the World Press Photo Award. Many photojournalists—not just them—have captured society’s realities.
Dear viewers, if any photojournalist’s feelings have been hurt, we sincerely apologize.
Those making divisive and misleading comments on Facebook are not like our friends; they tell stories visually and focus on quality.
Among thousands of news and opinion pieces, mistakes may occur, but we strive to correct them. This remains our professional obligation.
Now, let’s talk about the squatters.
Much reporting and multimedia content has been presented. We reflect on what resonates with Kamal’s sentiments: Why have we not found practical solutions to squatter hardships? A democratic state has the authority to manage within laws and regulations—why resort to violence?
Some squatters had obtained permits from the previous government. They were monitored irregularly by the army and police. Children were unable to take exams smoothly; conditions in holding centers were inadequate. Teenage girls referred to their shacks as homes, not hotels or holding centers.
The previous Kathmandu mayor, Balendra, made similar mistakes; currently, due to harsh state policies, these errors are being repeated. We are engaging in unnecessary criticism on Facebook.
The army and police are our brothers; then who are these squatters? The Constitution of Nepal guarantees all citizens the right to live with dignity.
Today, the spirit of the Constitution is fading, and it is time for us to show humanity.
The Nationalist Sovereign Party’s 100-point declaration clearly stated arrangements for homeless squatters, but implementation has faced challenges.
We must break the habit of deriving satisfaction from the suffering of opposing groups. Other people’s problems are real. Only after their education, employment, and housing are assured should relocation occur.
Today, whether it is a holding center or hotel, English terms are used to objectify squatters. Democracy remains a luxury for the upper-middle class.
Let us visit squatter settlements and understand their problems. State leaders frequently change policies; we must avoid drawing pleasure from others’ pain. This is our country.
Before the Constitution, it is time to show humanity. Let us acknowledge we are not the fourth estate and encourage others to understand this. Kamal, please forgive us.