Calgary, Canada — Police are searching for two individuals associated with the assault of a prominent radio station news director in Calgary. The incident occurred at a political gathering at Rio Banquet hall in northeast Calgary, where Rishi Nagar of Red FM was reporting on Sunday afternoon.
Nagar, a veteran journalist, recounted the traumatic experience during a press conference on Tuesday, visibly marked by the ordeal with a bandaged eye. He described how, upon exiting the hall, he was followed and abruptly attacked by two men who struck him multiple times around the head and face, causing him to lose his glasses and falter to the ground.
The attack, he believes, was a targeted attempt to intimidate him because of his outspoken coverage on issues impacting the South Asian community in Calgary, including topics such as violence and extortion. This aggressive response to his reporting highlights the dangers journalists face when investigating and exposing societal issues.
Calgary Police, who responded to the incident after being alerted around 3 p.m. on Sunday, confirmed the assault but have yet to apprehend the suspects who fled the scene prior to their arrival. The severity of Nagar’s injuries was such that although not hospitalised, he remains under medical supervision for potential retinal damage.
Nagar articulated his resolve to continue his journalistic endeavors despite the attack. He expressed his commitment not as a victim but as a defender of journalistic integrity and democratic values. According to him, the assault transcends a personal attack and symbolizes a threat to the fundamental principles of a free society.
The incident has stirred discussions on the safety of journalists in Canada, especially those dealing with sensitive topics that may provoke backlash from various community segments. This attack is not only a direct assault on Nagar but also an affront to the freedom of speech and the critical role of the press in a democratic society.
Calgary Police have emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. They have not yet released descriptions of the suspects but are calling for witnesses and any individuals with information about the attack to come forward.
This attack on a journalist has raised concerns about the rising hostility towards the press in certain quarters, reflecting a disturbing trend that could undermine the function of the media as a pillar of free expression and informed public discourse. Such incidents necessitate a broader conversation about the protection and safety of journalists, who play a pivotal role in maintaining transparency and accountability in society.