Journalists in Gazipur on Sunday formed a human chain protesting the arson attack at the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of senior journalist Nurul Kabir, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible.
The programme was organised by the Gazipur Press Club in front of its premises at noon.
During the demonstration, speakers issued a 24-hour ultimatum for the arrest of the attackers, warning that tougher programmes would be announced if the demand was not met within the stipulated time.
Delwar Hossain, senior member of the convening committee of the Gazipur Press Club and senior staff reporter of Dainik Kalbela, said the attackers could have shown patriotism by paying respect in front of the coffin of Sharif Osman Hadi, but instead chose to attack newspaper offices.
“People have already understood the real motive behind these attacks. Such anarchy is being created to sabotage the election,” he said, demanding the immediate arrest of the perpetrators. He added that journalists would not allow attempts to create mob violence in the country while they are alive.
Shah Samsul Haque Ripon, correspondent of Jugantor, said there was a planned attempt to destabilize Bangladesh by disrupting the peaceful environment. “There is an effort to portray Bangladesh as a militant state in the international media. We urge the government to take firm action to control such activities,” he said.
ATN News Gazipur reporter Mazharul Islam Masum said those who do not want Bangladesh’s sovereignty were behind the arson attack on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. He noted that video footage of the attackers was available on social media and elsewhere. “The culprits must be arrested immediately by identifying them from the footage. Otherwise, we will be forced to return to the streets after 24 hours,” he warned.
Journalists working with various media outlets in Gazipur took part in the human chain.
