DUJA forms human chain protesting attack on journalists

The Dhaka University Journalists' Association (DUJA) on Saturday formed a human chain protesting an attack on journalists inside Shahbagh Police Station and demanding a safe environment for independent journalism.

The programme was held at around 11:30am at the foot of Aparajeyo Bangla on the University of Dhaka campus.

Current members of the association, along with former presidents, general secretaries and members, took part in the demonstration. Speakers demanded the immediate identification of those involved in the attack, filing of cases, legal action against the perpetrators and disciplinary measures by the university authorities. They also called for ensuring a free and safe environment for journalism on campus.

The human chain drew solidarity from several leaders and journalists, including Shahidul Islam, president of the Dhaka Union of Journalists; Mohammad Abu Hanif, executive member of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists; Mowdud Ahmed Sujan, reporter at Al Jazeera; Hossain Tarek, Bangladesh correspondent of China Global Television Network; former DUJA president Mahbub Rony; and former leaders Masum Billah and Sirajul Islam Rubel, among others.

Addressing the programme, Shahidul Islam said those responsible for the attack must be brought to justice immediately, warning that failure to do so would signal a deterioration in the working environment for journalists. He also urged the university administration to identify and punish any students involved and called on the Inspector General of Police to take action against police personnel who failed to ensure journalists’ safety.

Former DUJA president Mahbub Rony alleged that no case had yet been formally recorded despite the incident taking place within the police station premises. He urged the authorities to promptly accept the case and initiate an investigation.

Former DUJA general secretary Sirajul Islam Rubel said Dhaka University journalists are often the first to report injustices on campus, but have now become victims themselves. He also claimed that DUJA leaders waited for four hours at Shahbagh Police Station to file a case but could not find the officer-in-charge.

DUJA General Secretary Mahadi Hasan alleged that both the university administration and law enforcement agencies were delaying justice through various excuses. He warned of tougher demonstrations if their demands are not met soon.

Newly elected DUJA President Manjur Hossain Mahi, along with General Secretary Liton Islam and others, also spoke at the programme.

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