Attack on Media Outlets in Bangladesh
The Prothom Alo newspaper office in Dhaka’s Karwanbazar was vandalized, forcing the newspaper to halt print publication for the first time in its 27-year history. This incident has been described as the ‘darkest night’ for journalism in the country by Prothom Alo Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif. The attack on the news outlets came after the death of Inquilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent figure of last year’s July Uprising.
Background of the Incident
The attack occurred when a group of people gathered in front of the offices of the newspapers and attacked them. The ‘miscreants’ also attacked another media outlet, the Daily Star, in the same area. The Executive Editor stated that Hadi’s killing had sparked anger across society, which was allegedly diverted by miscreants towards media organisations.
The Vandalism Incident
Speaking to ANI, the Executive Editor said that the newspaper’s house was vandalised by some miscreants. The incident happened while journalists were working on the next day’s newspaper and online content. The miscreants attacked the office, and the journalists were scared to death, forcing them to flee the office. As a result, the newspaper couldn’t publish its print edition, and its online platform was offline since the previous night.
Condemnation and Call for Investigation
The Executive Editor urged Bangladesh’s interim government to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure accountability. He stated that the government should find out the miscreants and bring them under the law. The Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, Mohhamud Yunus, condemned the violence on the media outlets and expressed his support for journalists, promising full justice.
The Death of Sharif Osman Hadi
The whole ordeal took place after the Inqilab Moncho spokesperson, Sharif Osman Hadi, was pronounced dead after he was shot at close range on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area. Critically injured, Hadi was first taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later shifted to Evercare Hospital, where he was placed in intensive care. On December 15, Hadi was flown to Singapore by air ambulance for advanced treatment, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Conclusion
The attack on media outlets in Bangladesh is a direct assault on freedom of speech and the news media in the country. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, and the government has been urged to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure accountability. The death of Sharif Osman Hadi has led to fresh protests in the capital of Dhaka, with activists calling for justice for the slain leader. The incident highlights the importance of protecting freedom of speech and the media in Bangladesh.
