Indian Press Club slams attacks targeting Bangladeshi journalists and media
The Press Club of India (PCI) has voiced serious concern and strongly condemned the recent incidents of violence, vandalism and arson targeting the offices of Bangladeshi newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of senior journalist Nurul Kabir, president of the Editors’ Council and editor of New Age.
In a statement released on Saturday, the PCI said that since the interim government assumed power in Bangladesh, more than 100 journalists have been arrested on murder charges and remain in prison without trial. The organisation demanded their immediate release.
Stressing that independent, ethical journalism is a fundamental pillar of democracy, the PCI said that acts of violence, intimidation and harassment intended to silence the media are unacceptable and undermine press freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law.
The PCI also urged the authorities to identify those responsible for the attacks and ensure justice through a fair, impartial and expeditious investigation.
