SAJF Condemns Violent Attack on Journalists in Narsingdi, Calls for Full Investigation and Protection

The South Asia Journalists Federation (SAJF) has strongly condemned the brutal attack on members of the Bangladesh Crime Reporters Association (CRAB) in Madhabdi, Narsingdi, on Monday evening, which left at least ten journalists injured. Among those hurt were journalists Shahed, Mohsin, Sakhawat Kausar, and CRAB staff member Lal.

According to local police and eyewitnesses, CRAB members were returning from a Family Day programme when a group of local miscreants demanded money from parked buses. When journalists questioned the extortion attempt, a scuffle broke out. The attackers reportedly used sticks, machetes, and other weapons, resulting in injuries to several reporters. Two suspects were initially detained at the scene, with additional arrests made as the investigation progressed.

“Assaults on journalists are assaults on press freedom and society’s right to know,” said Geetartha Pathak, President of SAJF. “We demand an immediate, transparent, and impartial investigation, the swift arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators, adequate medical care and compensation for the injured, and guarantees that journalists can work and gather in public without fear of violence or extortion.”

Shakeel Ahmed, Secretary General of SAJF, highlighted the dangers journalists face even during peaceful, non-reporting events. “Authorities must ensure accountability and take preventive measures, including dismantling criminal extortion networks that target media workers and public venues, so that such attacks never recur,” he said.

SAJF has called on the Government of Bangladesh, the Home Ministry, law-enforcement agencies, and local authorities to:

• Conduct a prompt, thorough, and transparent investigation and ensure victims’ safety.
• Arrest, charge, and prosecute all those responsible under relevant criminal statutes.
• Provide immediate medical support, rehabilitation, and compensation to the injured journalists.

• Identify and dismantle local criminal or extortion groups that threaten journalists and public safety.

   

The organization also urged media houses, journalist associations, and press councils to coordinate support for the injured and their families and to advocate for lasting protective measures for journalists at public events.