THE assault on four journalists near the deputy commissioner鈥檚 office in Shariatpur by miscreants is alarming. The attack, reportedly in retaliation for news exposing medical negligence in a local hospital, highlights the growing hostility towards the press and the lack of security of journalists, especially those who work in districts. Witnesses say that one journalist was first targeted and when three others tried to intervene, they, too, were assaulted. The attack marks a time when medical malpractice remains a pressing concern, with patients dying from minor procedures, even in Dhaka, seriously questioning healthcare accountability. If such incidents are rampant in Dhaka, the situation in upazila and district hospitals can only be graver. While each allegation of medical negligence should be scrutinised and addressed by the authorities, journalists have the responsibility to investigate and report objectively. That one of the alleged perpetrators is both a hospital owner and journalist further exposes the systemic abuse of power by the business elite. It is undeniable that the attackers have exploited the culture of impunity that has for long shielded the people who target the press.
Bangladesh ranks the 165th among 180 nations in the World Press Freedom Index, reflecting an alarming decline. Violence against journalists, perpetrated by law enforcers, business interests, political actors and crime syndicates, has escalated in recent years. In a few months, a number of incidents of attack on journalists made the headlines. Twenty were injured in an attack on the Chattogram Press Club on August 14, 2024 while 31 media professionals faced threats, assault or intimidation in 32 incidents in November and 23 such cases were reported in October that year, Manabadhikar Sangskriti Foundation says. Journalists working outside the capital are especially vulnerable, as local power brokers operate with greater impunity, often silencing the press with violence and intimidation. Despite repeated official statements affirming media freedom, there has been little to no meaningful action against such attacks. Repeated remarks in support of press freedom ring hollow when violent attacks on journalists continue unabated. The unchecked nature of the assaults has emboldened perpetrators, creating a chilling effect on independent journalism. In the current political landscape, safeguarding journalists is more crucial than ever. The authoritarian Awami League regime almost institutionalised press intimidation. For a democratic system, press freedom should be both pronounced and upheld.
The authorities should, therefore, ensure swift, independent investigation of the Shariatpur incident and other attacks on journalists. Without decisive action to protect journalists and press freedom, critical issues such as medical malpractice and negligence will remain unchallenged. The government should introduce stringent legal protection for journalists, establish ways to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure that law enforcers prevent such attacks.