Kathmandu, Aug. 13 -- The arrest of journalist Kishor Shrestha has sparked a widespread debate, with opinions sharply divided.

While a large section of the media fraternity has criticised the arrest, calling the move an attack on free press, others have welcomed it, levelling allegations against him that under the guise of journalism he was perpetrating violence against women.

A joint team of the Kathmandu Valley Crime Division and the District Police Range, Kathmandu, arrested Shrestha on Wednesday evening for allegedly violating an individual's right to privacy. Police said a woman had filed a complaint against him under the Right to Privacy Act.

Several journalists' organisations, media professionals and press freedom advocates have...