Press Statement/May 29, 2024

 

BJIM strongly condemns attack on a Savar journalist

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The Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media (BJIM) strongly denounces an assault on Aklakur Rahman Akash, a reporter for The Daily Star newspaper.

 

Akash was beaten and injured while reporting on an alleged ownership conflict at a ceramic factory in Savar industrial town.

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He was documenting "apparent vandalism" at a factory when he was attacked leaving him with injuries to his face, eyes, head, and other body parts. The attackers also seized his phone, he told BJIM.

 

This incident highlights the increasing dangers faced by journalists in Bangladesh.

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BJIM demands a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into this attack. We commend the police for apprehending two suspects and retrieving the journalist's phone.

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A free press is vital for democracy, and journalists must be able to report without fear of violence or retaliation. We urge the authority to take decisive action to protect journalists and their right to report freely and safely.

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 We hope The Daily Star will continue to provide their full support to Akash during this difficult time

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BJIM continues to monitor the situation in Bangladesh and is dedicated to advocating for the safety and rights of Bangladeshi journalists.

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on behalf of all BJIM members,

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SAM Jahan, Convener, BJIM

&

Faisal Mahmud, Member Secretary, BJIM

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