Prothom Alo, The Daily Star not published today after attacks

Bangladesh’s two leading newspapers—Prothom Alo and English-language daily The Daily Star—were not published on Friday (December 19) following attacks on their offices in the capital.

Due to the violence and resulting security concerns, both newspapers were forced to suspend their print operations for the day. Their online platforms were also largely inactive.

Senior officials of the two newspapers said late Thursday night that it would not be possible to publish any edition on Friday because of safety risks. They confirmed the decision to BBC Bangla.

According to available information, a group of angry individuals attacked the offices of Prothom Alo first and later The Daily Star at around midnight on Thursday. The attackers vandalised parts of the buildings and set fire to sections of the premises.

During the attacks, several journalists and staff members were trapped inside the offices for a period of time, creating panic and serious safety concerns.

The incidents have raised widespread alarm over press freedom and the safety of media workers in the country.