Thursday, October 6 2005 12:57 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kathmandu: A Nepalese journalist, imprisoned since the last two years for his alleged involvement in Maoist activities, has died in detention, Federation of Nepalese Journalists sources have said.

Mahesh Pahari, 30, editor of 'Rastriya Swabhiman' weekly, had been ill since the last two months and died while he was admitted to a regional hospital in Pokhara for treatment, the sources said. Pahari was arrested two years ago by security personnel for his alleged links with the Maoists.

FNJ General Secretary Mahendra Bista alleged Pahari died due to 'negligence' in treatment and asked the government to investigate the matter.

He has also demanded for compensation for his family members. He survives two minor children and his wife.

There are three other journalists still in security detention since the past several months.