Despite the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian regime, harassment and violence against journalists continue to plague the country. According to the Human Rights Support Society (HRSS), incidents of violence against journalists doubled in August 2025 compared to the previous month, affecting at least 72 journalists. Among them, one journalist was killed, 33 were injured, five were assaulted, 11 were threatened, and one was arrested.
Recent events have highlighted the urgent need for better protection for journalists. The killings of Asaduzzaman Tuhin and the brutal assault on Anwar Hossain in Gazipur have underscored the dangers faced by journalists in the line of duty. In addition to individual attacks, there have been instances of mob violence targeting media houses and journalists. A disturbing incident occurred at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) on August 28, where a mob attacked speakers during a roundtable discussion. Shockingly, instead of apprehending the attackers, the police detained journalist Monjurul Alam Panna under the Anti-Terrorism Act, along with former Awami League MP Abdul Latif Siddiqui and Dhaka University professor Sheikh Hafizur Rahman Karzon. Furthermore, a TV journalist covering Panna’s case in court was assaulted by several lawyers.
The challenges faced by journalists extend beyond physical attacks. Their integrity is frequently questioned, and their work is often criticized. The Editors’ Council, in a meeting on Wednesday, condemned the August 28 incident and raised concerns about the potential impact of the government’s proposed Media Workers (Terms of Employment) Act, 2021, which was drafted during the AL era. Journalists were among the most affected groups during the previous regime.
While there have been indications of increased space for dissent under the interim government, journalists continue to operate in a perilous environment. A recent suicide note by senior journalist Bibhuranjan Sarker shed light on the harsh realities faced by media professionals. They are under pressure to navigate relationships with political parties, security forces, and corporate entities. Concrete measures are needed to ensure their safety, job security, and the creation of a conducive work environment free from threats and intimidation. The media reform commission’s recommendations, aimed at bringing positive changes for the journalism community, remain unimplemented. It is imperative for the government to expedite the implementation of these recommendations to safeguard journalists’ safety and professional freedom.