Kathmandu, July 4 -- In a democracy, the media are regarded as the fourth pillar of the state, tasked with scrutinising those in power and keeping citizens informed. But as Prime Minister Balendra Shah's government completes its first 100 days in office, journalists and media observers say a series of developments point to mounting pressure on press freedom and freedom of expression.

Concerns have centred on warning-laden remarks by senior ministers, sustained harassment by supporters of the ruling party, a government policy directing public advertising only to state-owned media, and recent court rulings that critics argue could have a chilling effect on journalism.

When Home Minister Sudan Gurung resumed office on June 9, his first pub...