UKHRUL: The Press Club of India (PCI) has condemned the violent attacks on the media amid the unrest in Bangladesh and demanded immediate release of the arrested journalists.
The PCI, in statement, expressed its deep concern and condemned the violent attacks, vandalism and arson at the offices of daily Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of the President of the Editors’ Council and Editor of New Age, veteran journalist Nurul Kabir.
It stated that more than 100 journalists have been arrested on murder charges after the interim government took over in the strife-torn country. The journalists have been put behind bars without trial, it stated.Â
Also Read | Consultation Meeting on Ground Issues, Challenges of Women Held in Kamjong
Demanding the immediate release of the arrested journalists, the Press Club of India asserted that independent and responsible journalism is one of the main foundations of a democratic state.
“Violence, intimidation, attacks or harassment aimed at silencing the media are in no way acceptable. Such actions are completely contrary to media freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law,” the PCI stated.
PCI further demanded that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice through a fair, impartial and speedy investigation into these incidents.
Also Read | Sangeeta Barooah Becomes PCI’s First Woman President