I was shocked to read about a recent incident when 12 on-duty journalists were attacked by rowdy elements in Nawabganj, Dhaka. They also vandalised vehicles of the journalists, who were in the area to cover election campaigns of various candidates.
Any attack on the press is an ominous sign. Free press is the protector of citizens' rights, as it acts as their voice. Thomas Jefferson, a founding father and former President of USA, had said, "Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost." The government and law enforcing agencies should help the media and facilitate their work.
With the parliamentary election, scheduled for December 30, the number of violent incidents is rising in the country. This is affecting the festive atmosphere of the election. The government must take measures to stop the violence so that voters can go to the polling centres without any fear on December 30.
Masud Rana
Dhanmondi, Dhaka