DRU Demands Formation of Judicial Commission over Attacks and Killings of Journalists

The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of attacks and murders targeting journalists carrying out their professional duties.

In a statement issued on Saturday (9 August), DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel emphasised that, despite the interim government assuming power in August 2024, journalists’ security remains unsecured.

They highlighted a worrying rise in attacks, false lawsuits, torture, and killings targeting members of the press. The recent brutal murder of journalist Md. Asaduzzaman Tuhin in Gazipur represents not only a loss to one individual but also a grievous blow to freedom of expression and journalistic independence.

The DRU leaders further pointed out that justice has yet to be served in high-profile cases such as the killings of journalists Sagar Sarwar and Meherun Runi. The continued impunity of the perpetrators and the lack of adequate security have contributed to a surge in attacks, placing the freedom of the media and democracy itself in jeopardy.

In response, the organisation urged the government to establish a dedicated judicial commission to promptly investigate and adjudicate cases of journalist murders.

It is worth noting that since 11 February 2012, the investigation report into the murder of journalist couple Sagar Sarwar and Meherun Runi has faced 113 postponements, with the next hearing scheduled for 15 October.