At least 370 campus journalists in Bangladesh have strongly denounced the recent assault on members of the Dhaka University Journalists’ Association (DUJA). They are demanding severe punishment for the attackers. The journalists expressed deep concern and anger over the incident in a joint statement issued on Wednesday.
The attack, which took place during the journalists’ duties, was criticized by these journalists. It was allegedly carried out by leaders and members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD). A violent clash occurred at Shahbagh Police Station following the circulation of a doctored screenshot containing offensive remarks about Zaima Rahman, the daughter of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, as per reports.
DUJA reported that the assault happened while journalists were covering tensions related to the social media post at the police station. The organization claimed that Chhatra Dal leaders obstructed journalists before a group of around 150 to 200 individuals attacked them. The incident resulted in injuries to as many as 10 journalists.
The statement described the attack as not just a direct assault on independent journalism but also a violation of democratic principles. The signatories quoted by The Dhaka Tribune expressed serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in the country.
The journalists highlighted that such attacks, harassment, and intimidation against journalists are not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend. They emphasized that silencing journalists undermines democracy and called for the swift identification, arrest, and exemplary punishment of those responsible for the attack.
The journalists also urged the Dhaka University administration to take strict administrative action against the accused students. They called for an impartial investigation into alleged negligence by law enforcement agencies and the implementation of necessary measures. The journalists affirmed their unity and determination to speak out against injustices, stating that attacks and repression cannot silence the truth.
