The recent political crisis in Bangladesh is nothing short of a turmoil leading to significant events such as resignation and fleeing of long-serving Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and violent nationwide protests.
In such a situation, those who are on ground zero — journalists and media workers — there safety is at stake.
The protests have been particularly dangerous for journalists. Pradip Kumar Bhawmik, a correspondent for the daily Khabarpatra, was among those killed. He and others were dragged from the Royganj Press Club and beaten by unidentified assailants. This brings the total number of journalists killed during the protests to four, with at least 160 injured.
Attack on journalists:
Miraz Hossain and Jahidul Islam, reporters for Business Standard, were attacked by supporters of the Jubo League.
Mithu Das Joy, Bureau Chief of the daily Kalbela, was shot three times in Sylhet.
Shakil Hossain and Mehedi Hassan were killed in separate incidents while covering protests in Gazipur City and Dhaka, respectively.
Abu Taher Md Turab was fatally shot during a police procession in Sylhet.
The Bangladesh Manobadhikar Sangbadik Forum (BMSF) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) have condemned the violence against journalists and called for their protection. They urge both protesters and authorities to ensure the safety of media workers and demand that perpetrators of crimes against journalists be brought to justice.
Statements from journalism organisations
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BMSF: Urgently calls for the safety of journalists and condemns the attacks on media workers in various regions, including Dhaka, Kushtia, Rangpur, Patuakhali, and Chattagram.
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IFJ: Calls on authorities to safeguard journalists' lives and rights, cease restrictions on telecommunications access, and ensure that those responsible for violence against journalists are held accountable. IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger emphasised the need for media collectives and unions to defend press freedom during the ongoing political instability.
The political instability has, unequivocally, created a perilous environment for journalists.
The international community, media organisations, and local unions must work together to protect media workers and uphold the principles of press freedom and safety during this critical period.
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