The brutal killing of journalist Asaduzzaman Tuhin in Gazipur has once again forced Bangladesh to confront a sobering truth: our journalists remain dangerously vulnerable. Whether his murder stemmed from exposing extortion or filming an attempted fraud, the fact remains that a reporter carrying out his work was stabbed to death in full public view.
his is not only a tragedy for his family and colleagues but also a chilling signal to every journalist who dares to investigate wrongdoing.
Authorities have acted swiftly, arresting seven suspects within 24 hours and pledging a speedy investigation. Yet, justice after the fact is not enough. Safety must be guaranteed before another life is lost.
Tuhin’s death is not an isolated incident. According to the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB), three journalists have been killed in the past year, while hundreds have faced harassment, legal intimidation, or dismissal from their jobs.
Transparency International Bangladesh has documented widespread threats, censorship, and self-censorship – symptoms of an environment where fear shadows free reporting.
The government insists it has not curtailed press freedom, rejecting NOAB’s claims as “misplaced” and “factually flawed.” It highlights media outlets reopened during its tenure and proposed legislation for journalist protection. These pledges are welcome, but they ring hollow without visible, systemic safeguards.
Press freedom is not measured solely by the absence of official bans. It is defined by whether journalists can investigate, question, and publish without fear of retribution from criminals, political actors, or even corporate pressure. When reporters are harassed, sued, or attacked, and when editors are removed in politically charged circumstances, the democratic fabric frays.
Bangladesh stands at a delicate juncture. The post-August 2024 democratic transition was meant to usher in greater openness and accountability. That promise will not be fulfilled if the media remains under siege. Protecting journalists is not a favour to the press; it is a duty to the public, whose right to know depends on their work.
The government must go beyond rebuttals and take decisive action: enact the Journalist Protection Act with enforceable safety protocols, ensure swift legal recourse for attacks, and dismantle the culture of impunity that emboldens aggressors. Media owners, too, must guarantee fair contracts, adequate security, and editorial independence.
Tuhin’s killing must not become another statistic. It should mark the moment Bangladesh chooses to defend those who risk everything to keep its citizens informed – and in doing so, defend democracy itself.
