New Delhi: The Bangladesh Journalists in International Media (BJIM) issued a statement strongly denouncing the brutal attack on journalist Sabbir Ahmed and urging for enhanced safety measures for journalists in Bangladesh. Sabbir, a correspondent for Shomoyer Alo, was violently assaulted with iron rods and hockey sticks by a group suspected to be affiliated with the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), a student organization associated with the ruling Awami League party. The incident occurred on Friday evening in Dhaka.
President of the Titumir College journalist association Tawsif Maimun revealed that Sabbir was targeted due to his reporting, which the BCL believed was detrimental to their reputation. BJIM further condemned the attack as an act of aggression by ‘ruling party’ affiliates, highlighting the need for better protection of journalists in the region.
The assailants left Sabbir on the side of the road after inflicting severe head and back injuries, emphasizing a disturbing pattern of violence towards journalists by the BCL. Despite promises from authorities, little action has been taken against the perpetrators, leading BJIM to attribute these incidents to a culture of impunity that enables pro-government groups to target the press freely.
BJIM is calling for the government to cover Sabbir’s medical expenses and to hold those responsible for the attack accountable for their actions. The organization, on behalf of its members, demands justice for Sabbir and for all journalists facing similar threats or violence in the pursuit of their work.
In a press release dated March 22, 2024, BJIM asserted the importance of safeguarding press freedom and ensuring the safety of journalists in Bangladesh. The organization urges authorities to take decisive action to prevent future attacks on members of the media, emphasizing the critical role of journalism in upholding transparency and accountability in society.
The incident involving Sabbir Ahmed underscores the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Bangladesh and the need for robust measures to protect their fundamental rights and ensure their safety while carrying out their duties. Through its advocacy and condemnation of such attacks, BJIM strives to create a safer environment for journalists and to uphold the principles of a free and independent press.