BNP beat reporters strongly condemns assault on journos at Nagorik Shokshobha

Journalists covering the BNP beat across various media outlets have strongly condemned the physical assault and harassment of several media personnel during 'Nagorik Shokshobha' programme held in memory of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.

In a statement issued on Friday night (January 16), the journalists expressed deep anger and condemnation over the incident, describing it as unacceptable and a serious threat to press freedom and the professional duties of journalists.

According to eyewitness, the incident took place on Friday afternoon when Somoy TV special correspondent Ahmed Saleheen was on air. At that time, Saleh Uddin, member secretary of the organising committee, allegedly shouted that live coverage was not allowed, grabbed Saleheen by the collar, dragged him away and physically assaulted him. The situation was later brought under control following the intervention of BNP leaders and fellow journalists present at the venue.

It was also alleged that Saleh Uddin behaved inappropriately with several other journalists, including Green TV reporter Ahsan Habib.

In the statement, BNP beat journalists said Saleh Uddin’s unprofessional and aggressive conduct was entirely unacceptable. They also questioned whether assigning such individuals responsibilities for large-scale events was appropriate, urging the BNP to review the matter seriously.

The statement further noted that journalists covering the BNP have recently faced repeated obstacles and embarrassing situations, including difficulties in obtaining media cards for coverage related to Tarique Rahman’s return to the country and restrictions on entry to a recent media interaction with the BNP chairperson at a hotel.

BNP beat reporters expressed hope that those concerned would act with greater responsibility to ensure that journalists—who have long worked under challenging conditions—can carry out their professional duties without facing any form of obstruction.