Journo threatened legal action over published report
A journalist was threatened with physical assault and legal action following the publication of a news report. The allegation was brought against Mamun Shikder, director of Kolapata.
In connection with the incident, Zahurul Islam Siraj, Sonargaon correspondent of The New Nation, has filed a general diary (GD) with Sonargaon Police Station, seeking security and protection.
According to journalist jahurul Islam Siraj, Mazharul Islam, owner of Al Madina Shopping Mall, held a press conference on August 29. During the press conference, he made various allegations against Mamun Shikder, including an allegation that he had received death threats.
Journalists from several media outlets were present at the press conference. Subsequently, reports were published by various media outlets based on the statements made at the press conference.
Siraj said that the day after the reports were published, Mamun Shikder called him and demanded an explanation as to why the report had been published.
At one point during the conversation, Shikder allegedly threatened him with physical assault and legal action. An audio recording related to the alleged conversation was also played to fellow journalists, Siraj said.
Jahurul Islam Siraj further alleged that journalists had previously been subjected to intimidation and threats from individuals associated with the matter over the publication of news reports.
He said he was concerned about his personal safety. For this reason, he informed Sonargaon Police Station of the matter and filed a general diary against Mamun Shikder.
Siraj said that, as a journalist, it is his responsibility to present fact-based information to the public. He added that threats of physical assault, legal action or intimidation against journalists over published reports create pressure on the environment for independent journalism.
Meanwhile, journalist jahurul Islam Siraj also claimed that a case had been filed over allegations of the illegal use of government-supplied gas by the individuals concerned. He alleged that several establishments, including the relevant restaurant, bakery and sweet-making factory, were using gas illegally. However, he said that the actual facts regarding these allegations would have to be established through an investigation by the relevant authorities.
Efforts were made several times to contact Mamun Shikder, director of Kolapata Burger, by mobile phone to obtain his comments on the allegations. However, he did not answer the calls. As a result, his statement could not be obtained.
Journalist Jahurul Islam Siraj has informed his colleagues about the matter and sought their necessary cooperation. He has also urged the law enforcement authorities to take necessary measures to ensure his safety.
