Jamaat attacks journalists on AL anniversary, condemnation continues
Mir Afroz Zaman
Amid unprecedented security measures being taken across the capital to mark the Awami League anniversary, an attack on journalists took place in Dhanmondi 32 area after a protest march by Jamaat-e-Islami on Tuesday. At least one journalist was injured in the incident.
At the same time, more than 18,000 police personnel were deployed in the capital to prevent possible political programs and deterioration of the law and order situation. In addition, members of the army and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) also took positions in the field.
Police sources said that a special security plan was implemented across the capital in anticipation of possible sudden processions, sabotage or violence on the occasion of the Awami League anniversary. More than 18,000 members of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) were assigned to various important places. Additional check posts and patrols were strengthened at the entrances of the capital, important roads, politically sensitive areas and government establishments. At the same time, members of the army and BGB remained on the ground in support of the civilian administration.
Earlier on Monday, law enforcement agencies carried out raids in different areas of the capital and arrested 26 leaders and activists of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations. Police claimed that they were involved in implementing programs on behalf of the banned organization and planning to disrupt public order. Police said that legal action has been taken against the arrested.
Meanwhile, a protest march was held in Dhanmondi No. 32 area on Tuesday morning at the initiative of Jamaat-e-Islami. After the march, the leaders of the organization were talking to journalists. At that time, some participants started arguing with journalists present at the scene. Eyewitnesses said that at one stage, tension spread and some journalists were attacked.
Daily Sakal reporter Mahfuzur Rahman Shishir was injured in the attack. According to eyewitnesses, he was surrounded and beaten and his face was injured. Later, colleagues rescued him and provided him with medical treatment. Several other journalists present at the scene were allegedly assaulted and harassed. Apart from this, Kalbela news reporter Abdur Rahman Ishan and Jamuna TV reporter Rabbi Siddique were also injured in the beating. Later, other journalists present at the scene rescued them and sent them to the hospital.
Eyewitnesses said that Jamaat-e-Islami held a protest march at Dhanmondi 32 in Dhanmondi Zone of Dhaka Metropolitan South at around 8:30 am on the occasion of the 77th founding anniversary of the Awami League. Jamaat leaders Mustafizur Rahman, Mujahidul Islam Shahin, Anisuzzaman and Jahinur Rahman along with local leaders and activists participated in the program.
Various journalist organizations have condemned the attack on journalists. They have demanded that the culprits be identified quickly and brought to justice. Concerns have also been expressed about ensuring the safety of journalists while performing their professional duties.
Additional police were deployed in Dhanmondi 32 area after the incident. Intelligence agencies are monitoring the situation. Law enforcement officials said that security arrangements have been maintained to prevent any kind of violence or chaos from occurring anywhere in the capital.
The administration is currently claiming that the situation in the capital is under control. However, new concerns have been raised over political tension, arrest drives and attacks on journalists surrounding the founding anniversary. Police, army and BGB members are on alert to maintain the situation. In addition, surveillance has been increased on provocative activities through various media, including social media.
