TIB Condemns Attack on Journalists’ Press Freedom

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed deep concern over the shooting incident targeting journalists in Khulna, describing it as a direct assault on independent journalism, freedom of expression and the broader principle of a free press. The anti-corruption watchdog has called for a swift, impartial and credible investigation to identify everyone involved in the attack and ensure they are held accountable under the law.

In a statement issued to the media on Thursday (16 July), TIB said the apparent reluctance of the affected journalists to file a criminal case immediately after the incident reflects a troubling culture of fear and a lack of confidence in the justice system. The organisation argued that such hesitation highlights the insecurity many journalists continue to face while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said it is still unclear whether the attack specifically targeted an individual journalist or was linked to the publication of a particular report. Even so, he stressed that an armed attack on journalists constitutes an attack on media freedom and the constitutional right to freedom of expression, regardless of the motive behind it.

He urged the authorities to conduct a prompt investigation free from political or other forms of influence, without unnecessary delays. According to him, investigators must identify not only those who carried out the assault but also anyone who planned or ordered it. He argued that filing a case alone is not enough. The investigation, he said, must establish the true motive behind the attack, determine who was responsible, identify whether it was orchestrated by others, and clarify whether the journalists’ professional work had any connection to the incident.

Dr Iftekharuzzaman warned that failure to deliver a credible investigation and meaningful accountability could allow the case to join the long list of unresolved attacks that have remained without justice over the years. Such an outcome, he said, would reinforce a culture of impunity and embolden those who seek to intimidate journalists through violence.

Referring to reports published in the media, TIB noted that the journalists who came under attack were initially unwilling to pursue legal action. The organisation described this as a deeply worrying development, suggesting that concerns over possible reprisals, personal safety and a wider climate of intimidation may have influenced their decision.

The TIB chief said such reluctance also points to a broader crisis of confidence in the willingness and capacity of the relevant authorities to ensure effective investigations and meaningful accountability. When victims themselves fear seeking justice, he observed, it raises serious questions about the level of protection available to media professionals.

He added that law enforcement agencies, including intelligence bodies, now possess extensive surveillance and investigative capabilities. Given those resources, he argued, there is little justification for failing to identify those responsible for crimes of this nature.

TIB concluded that an environment in which journalists are afraid to seek justice cannot sustain a genuinely free press. Fear and distrust discourage independent, investigative and public-interest journalism while creating opportunities for influential and vested interests to act with greater impunity. The organisation therefore called on the authorities to guarantee journalists’ safety, carry out impartial investigations into every attack on media professionals, and ensure effective prosecution and exemplary accountability to restore public confidence and protect press freedom.