Ctg peshajibi parishad expresses deep concern over attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, cultural bodies

Bangladesh Sammilita Peshajibi Parishad (BSPP), Chattogram, has expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the recent attacks, vandalism and arson at the offices of Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, and cultural organisations Udichi and Chhayanaut.

The attacks broke out in Dhaka following news of the death of Sharif Osman Hadi.

In a joint statement issued today, BSPP Chattogram unit Convener Zahidul Karim Kochi and Member Secretary Dr Khurshid Jamil Chowdhury voiced their strong protest against the violence.

The leaders asserted that such assaults on the media are "utterly unacceptable" and constitute a direct blow to freedom of the press and the public's right to information.

They emphasised that the rule of law and democracy cannot be established by stifling the voice of an independent media.

The statement further said that "The media had faced similar suppression during the tenure of the previous fascist government.

"It is alarming that attacks on the media persist even after the fall of a fascist regime at the cost of many lives," the leaders said.

The BSPP also highlighted a distressing incident in which Nurul Kabir, president of the Editors' Council and editor of New Age, was harassed by agitators while visiting Prothom Alo and The Daily Star following the attacks.

The professional body described the incident as part of a "well-planned agenda" by a specific vested quarter.

The statement concluded with an urgent call on the authorities to identify those involved in the violence, bring them to justice, and ensure the safety of journalists and media outlets across the country.