DU MCJ dept protests attack on journalist, demand press freedom

Former and current students of Dhaka University's Mass Communication and Journalism department staged a protest rally and human chain on Monday, demanding an end to the harassment of journalists and advocating for the protection of press freedom. The protest was held in solidarity with Prothom Alo reporter Asif Himadri, who was attacked while carrying out his professional duties.

The students gathered at the Raju Memorial Sculpture at around 5:00 pm, wearing black tape over their mouths and carrying placards with slogans such as "Independent Bangladesh means Independent journalism," "Justice for Sagar-Runi," and "Journalism is not a crime.”

Associate Professor Md Saiful Alam Chowdhury, a faculty member of the department, criticised the lack of justice for journalists facing harassment. He highlighted the delays in investigations, trials, and the eventual escape of accused perpetrators.

Prothom Alo's Dhaka University correspondent, Asif Himadri, was attacked by Ansar members on Sunday night while performing his professional duties in front of the Secretariat.

Despite identifying himself as a journalist, Himadri was assaulted and later taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

Due to delays in treatment there, he was transferred to a private hospital in the capital. After being declared out of danger by doctors, Himadri went to the home of an acquaintance.

The students demanded a thorough investigation into the attack on Himadri and justice for all journalists who have been targeted.