Magistrate calling journalists ‘terrorists’ withdrawn

An executive magistrate in Panchagarh has been withdrawn after publicly referring to journalists as “terrorists.”

Tahmidur Rahman, Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate of Panchagarh district administration, allegedly hurled the remarks at reporters on Sunday (September 21) during an event at Aulia Ghat on the Karotoa River. Following the incident, the district administration confirmed his immediate withdrawal from duty at the site.

Journalists had gathered there to cover a memorial programme marking three years since the tragic boat capsize in Boda upazila that claimed 71 lives. When reporters attempted to board a boat, Magistrate Tahmidur Rahman stopped them, even as several boats carrying passengers and motorcycles were allowed to cross.

Frustrated by the journalists’ objections, the magistrate said: “I don’t care if you’re from Al Jazeera or anywhere else—you cannot go. You are terrorists; your activities are terrorist acts.” His comments, made in front of more than a hundred people, sparked outrage among local media workers.

Fahim Hasan, district correspondent of Ajker Patrika, said: “We were there to cover the Mahalaya event. The magistrate blocked us from crossing with motorcycles, while others—including the UNO—were crossing freely with theirs. Why only block journalists?”

Moshiaraf Hossain of Kalbela added: “Upon hearing we were journalists, he got angry and called us terrorists. Such remarks are absolutely unacceptable.”

Boda upazila nirbahi officer (UNO) Robiul Islam, who was present, declined to comment, saying only: “Do whatever you want.”

Panchagarh deputy commissioner Sabet Ali confirmed: “Magistrate Md. Tahmidur Rahman has been immediately withdrawn from his duties at Aulia Ghat.”