Violence has once again erupted in Bangladesh after the death of Sheikh Hasina’s opposition leader Usman Hadi. Protesters set fire to the offices of two major newspapers in Dhaka, Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. Since this incident, serious questions are being raised on the independence of media. Many newspapers have described this incident as the darkest night. For the first time in the last 27 years, the printing of Prothom Aalo has been stopped due to this incident. At present, the government has ordered an investigation into the entire matter.
Sajjad Sharif, Executive Editor of Prothom Aalo, bangladesh I have described it as “the darkest night” for newspapers. He said that some miscreants vandalized our media house. Last night, when our journalists were working on yesterday’s newspapers and online platforms. During that time the attack took place.
He said that there was anger in the society after the death of Usman Hadi. Miscreants have used that anger to harm newspapers. Many journalists are badly scared due to this incident. He had to leave the office and run away to save his life.
Paper not printed for the first time in 27 years
Sajjad Sharif said that since our establishment in 1998, we have been publishing the paper continuously for 27 years. This is the first time that we have not published our newspaper. This is the darkest night for newspapers. Sharif has demanded from the government that action should be taken against all the people involved in such incidents.
Further said that this is an attack on our freedom of expression and independence of news media. We urge the government to conduct a proper investigation to find the miscreants and bring them under the law.
Violence erupted due to Usman’s death
Student leader Usman Hadi was shot in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka on December 12, in which he was seriously injured. Hadi was immediately taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later referred to Singapore for treatment. He died six days later.
Hadi’s death has again fueled political instability at such a time. As Bangladesh prepares for an important national election and readjusts its relations with New Delhi. Hadi was the spokesperson of the Islamic organization Inquilab Manch and was an independent candidate from Dhaka in the elections. General elections are going to be held in Bangladesh on 12 February next year.
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