A transnational campaign led by Bangladeshi online activists in the United States and France has led to violent attacks on major media houses and cultural institutions in Bangladesh. This incident highlights the risks of online incitement across borders, with concerns raised about social media platforms being used to orchestrate violence in the country. The activists, Elias Hossain and Pinaki Bhattacharya, directed attacks on media outlets like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, mobilizing crowds through social media platforms.
Elias Hossain, based in New York, posted a message on Facebook urging the destruction of Prothom Alo, which quickly spread across various social media channels. The coordinated attacks on media offices and cultural institutions were fueled by online incitement, with the activists leveraging their online presence to influence real-world actions. The activists have been running campaigns against leading Bangladeshi newspapers, accusing them of spreading misinformation and inciting violence.
The activists have been accused of targeting newsrooms and inciting violence against journalists, with their online rhetoric escalating over time. They even orchestrated the demolition of a former Prime Minister’s home, demonstrating their ability to influence events in real-time. The situation in Bangladesh has worsened since the interim government took power, with a rise in attacks on journalists and a deteriorating law and order situation.
