TIB demands probe, accountability

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has demanded an immediate and impartial investigation into the shooting attack on a group of journalists in Khulna, describing the incident as an attack on media freedom and independent journalism.

In a statement issued on Thursday, TIB said the journalists’ reluctance to file a case over the incident reflects a growing culture of fear and a lack of confidence in the authorities.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said it was not yet clear whether the attack targeted a specific journalist or was linked to any particular news report. However, he said the armed attack on journalists clearly amounted to an assault on freedom of expression.

“Authorities must conduct an impartial and effective investigation without delay to identify not only those who carried out the attack but also those who planned and ordered it,” he said.

He said filing a case alone would not be enough, stressing the need to uncover the motive behind the attack, identify those responsible and determine whether it was connected to the journalists’ professional work.

“If the truth is not established, this incident may become another addition to the long list of cases marked by impunity,” he added.

Referring to reports that the journalists were initially hesitant to file a case, Iftekharuzzaman said the situation was deeply concerning.

He said such hesitation reflects fears of retaliation, insecurity among journalists and a broader crisis of trust in the authorities’ ability to ensure justice.

“Where victims fear seeking justice, we cannot claim that media freedom is protected,” he said.

TIB urged authorities to take immediate steps to ensure journalists’ safety and guarantee credible investigations and exemplary punishment for those responsible for attacks against media professionals.