The most frightening part of the attack on Himalmedia on Sunday is that the Maoists were using their militant union as part of an effort to wage a do-or-die battle for power against other parties. Once more, there is a question mark over the Maoists' commitment to free press and freedom of expression. In previous attacks on the press we saw a similar involvement of Maoist unions. Unlike using legal means and methods of non-violent struggle, the use of vandalism and physical attacks are uncivilised. If the Maoists are really interested in the welfare of workers, they are in a position of power to use legitimate means, they needn't resort to extra-legal methods.

The Maoist leadership must immediately investigate this and other criminal activities and bring the culprits to justice. They should not just pay lip service to press freedom but actually do something to stop future attacks. Otherwise, the Maoists will be exposed in every labour dispute of this type and the prime minister will have nothing else to do but to go around saying sorry all the time.

It is shameful that in our new democracy we have to leave editorial spaces blank and hands that are supposed to wield pens must wield black banners and break police cordons to march into Singha Darbar. The nation wants to know: are the Maoists proud of such shameful acts or will they show some responsibility?