Youth Shakti Leaders Removed After Issuing Threat to Journalists in Rajshahi

Two senior leaders of the National Youth Shakti organisation have been temporarily suspended following an incident in Rajshahi, where they reportedly threatened to lock journalists inside a room. The decision was announced through a press release issued late on Tuesday night.

According to the statement, Mehedi Hasan, Chief Organiser of the Metropolitan Unit, and Swaib Ahmed, Joint Member Secretary, have been temporarily relieved of all committee responsibilities for committing serious breaches of organisational discipline. Both leaders have been instructed to submit written explanations and appear in person within two working days to justify why permanent disciplinary action should not be taken. This directive was issued by the organisation’s Convener, Advocate Tarikul Islam, and Member Secretary, Dr Jahedul Islam.

The incident occurred on Monday during a press conference held by the newly formed district committee of the National Citizen Party. As the event progressed, a separate group began demonstrating outside the venue. According to witnesses, Mehedi Hasan and Swaib Ahmed threatened to confine journalists inside the room if they did not leave, creating immediate tension.

Journalists reacted promptly, protesting the threats and raising their voices against the intimidation. When Swaib and his associates attempted to exit the building, the journalists followed them, leading to several minutes of heightened confrontation within the motel compound. Following the incident, Swaib Ahmed publicly apologised to one of the journalists.

The National Youth Shakti press release emphasised that the organisation takes breaches of discipline seriously and is committed to maintaining transparency and accountability among its members. The temporary suspension of Hasan and Ahmed underscores the organisation’s zero-tolerance approach to misconduct, particularly in incidents involving the press.

Observers note that the episode has drawn attention to the importance of safeguarding journalists’ rights and ensuring freedom of the press, even amid political demonstrations or organisational activities. Local media representatives have urged all parties to resolve disputes professionally and to respect journalists’ work.

Key Details: Rajshahi Incident

The organisation has confirmed that the disciplinary process will continue, with the final outcome dependent on the explanations provided by the suspended leaders and a review by the governing committee.