Two journalists were attacked in Gazipur within a day. On Thursday, Asaduzzaman Tuhin, a staff reporter for the daily Pratidin Kagoj, was brutally hacked to death by armed miscreants. The day before, Anwar Hossain, a reporter for the daily Alo, was beaten. We strongly condemn these acts of violence and demand the immediate arrest and fair trial of the perpetrators.
These incidents raise serious concerns about the safety of journalists and the overall security situation in the country. While law enforcement agencies have arrested seven people in connection with the murder, justice must be ensured through an impartial investigation.
Journalists routinely face threats, attacks, lawsuits, and harassment for performing their professional duties, often at the hands of political leaders, local influential figures, or even state actors. The enactment of the Digital Security Act by the previous government has worsened this situation by enabling persecution under the guise of law, stifling free expression in media and social platforms.
The question remains: has the situation improved following recent political changes? Sadly, many complaints and cases involving harassment and murder of journalists remain unresolved. Without accountability and trials, such violence will continue unchecked, emboldening those who seek to silence the press.
Journalists play a vital role in informing society and upholding democracy. It is the government's duty to ensure a safe and free environment for the media, to prosecute all crimes against journalists, and to uphold the principles of free expression and justice.
Ashikujaman Syed
Business Development Manager
Tianjin Pharmacn Medical Technology Co., Ltd.
Tianjin, China
syedashikujaman@yahoo.com
