The Karachi Press Club (KPC) expresses its profound concern and strongly condemns the escalating series of violent attacks, vandalism and arson targeting the offices of major media outlets in Bangladesh, specifically Prothom Alo and The Daily Star.
The statement also said: “We also voice our serious alarm over the harassment of veteran journalist and Editor of New Age, Nurul Kabir.”
The KPC is deeply troubled by reports that since the transition to the Interim Government, over 100 journalists have been detained on serious charges without due process.
KPC added: “We believe that the detention of journalists without trial creates a climate of fear and stifles the essential voice of the public. We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all journalists currently held in custody.”
The statement further said: “A free, independent, and courageous press is the bedrock of any democratic society. Attempts to silence the media through physical violence, legal intimidation, or harassment are direct violations of fundamental human rights, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the principles of the rule of law.”
In solidarity with our colleagues in Bangladesh, the Karachi Press Club calls upon the relevant authorities to ensure the safety of media persons and to conduct a transparent, impartial investigation into these attacks. “The perpetrators must be held accountable to prevent the further erosion of democratic values in the region,” it said.
