Deepanwita Martin
Since July 16, 2024, Bangladesh has found itself at the center of a grave human rights crisis, marked by widespread violence and mass killings. This turmoil has not only destabilized the nation but has also created a perilous environment for journalists, raising urgent alarms about the state of press freedom in the country.
The ongoing political unrest has transformed Bangladesh into a hostile territory for media professionals. Reports indicate that at least 20 journalists have been killed since the onset of this crisis, suggesting a systematic effort to suppress independent journalism and silence dissenting voices. These targeted attacks threaten the foundational principles of free speech and democracy, creating an atmosphere of fear that deters journalists from carrying out their essential work.
A particularly shocking incident occurred on August 4, 2024, when four journalists were shot dead in separate attacks. According to the Human Rights Support Society (HRSS), the victims included Hasan Mahadi from Dhaka Times, Tahir Zaman Prio, ATM Turab from Sylhet District, and Prodip Kumar Bhoumik from Raiganj Upazila. These tragic events highlight a broader crisis that jeopardizes the safety of all journalists in Bangladesh, as they are increasingly targeted for their commitment to reporting the truth.
As the situation has continued to escalate, reports of violent assaults against journalists have become alarmingly common. Many have been attacked under the pretext of being affiliated with the “Jubo League,” the youth wing of the ousted ruling party- Bangladesh Awami League, despite the journalists presenting their press identification cards. Disturbing videos have emerged showing a journalist being viciously attacked by a mob, illustrating the extreme risks that media professionals face in their pursuit of objective reporting.
The increase in violence against journalists is not merely an isolated phenomenon; it represents a significant threat to democracy and the rule of law in Bangladesh. Human rights organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), have condemned these actions, asserting that they infringe upon the rights of journalists and the citizens’ right to access vital information. The suppression of independent media undermines democratic discourse, complicating citizens’ ability to hold their government accountable.
In response to these alarming developments, the CPJ has called on Dr. Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard press freedom. Following a recent meeting at the UN General Assembly, the CPJ outlined ten key actions that the interim government must undertake to protect journalists and uphold freedom of expression in Bangladesh.
Among these crucial recommendations is a call for a moratorium on restrictive media laws, particularly in light of the recent repeal of the controversial Cyber Security Act 2023. This law had replaced the widely criticized Digital Security Act, which was often used to target journalists under previous administrations. The CPJ has also urged the government to dismiss retaliatory cases against journalists, many of whom are currently embroiled in police investigations or facing imprisonment.
Moreover, the CPJ’s letter emphasized the urgent need to address the ongoing detention of four pro-Awami League journalists, calling on the government to uphold their right to a fair trial. The organization has demanded thorough investigations into recent attacks on journalists, including the fatal shootings that occurred in July 2024, unresolved murders, and alarming reports of custodial violence, torture, and abductions.
Additional recommendations from the CPJ include an end to the surveillance and harassment of journalists, the implementation of protective legislation, and the reform of the Bangladesh Press Council to function as an independent body. The organization has also advocated for streamlined press accreditation processes, unrestricted visas for foreign journalists, and unhindered access to media and internet services.
These proposed reforms are seen as essential for fostering a robust and independent press in Bangladesh, especially in the face of growing threats to media rights. Amnesty International has echoed these sentiments, urging the interim government to dismantle its longstanding legacy of quashing dissent by repealing laws like the Cyber Security Act that undermine the rights to freedom of expression, liberty, and privacy.
The international response to these grave concerns has been notable. The United States has expressed “strong objections” to the harassment and intimidation of journalists in Bangladesh, reaffirming its commitment to supporting a free and independent media. Furthermore, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has raised several critical concerns regarding the treatment of journalists in Bangladesh, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive action to safeguard press freedom in the country.
As the situation continues to unfold, the fate of press freedom in Bangladesh hangs in the balance, with journalists facing unprecedented threats to their safety and the freedom to report. The global community is urged to remain vigilant and advocate for the protection of media professionals and the rights of citizens to access unbiased information, which are essential components of any democratic society.
Sub Editor, The Voice