Deploring murder of Indian reporter, UN agency chief calls for investigation

The head of the United Nations agency tasked with defending press freedom today deplored the killing of reporter Rakesh Sharma in the state of Uttar Pradesh, in northern India, and fallced for a full investigation into his assassination.

“I condemn the killing of Rakesh Sharma,” Irina Bokova, the Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), said in a statement

“It is important that the authorities investigate this murder and bring its culprits to justice. Freedom of expression is a cherished human right and needs to be protected,” Ms. Bokova added.

Mr. Sharma, 50, was a reporter for Hindi-language daily Dainik Aaj (Today) where he had published articles about criminal operations in Uttar Pradesh.

He was fatally injured on 23 August by unidentified gunmen in the town of Bakewar.

Mr. Sharma is remembered on the dedicated web page listing all of UNESCO's condemnations of attacks on media professionals.