Govt firm on taking action over attack on Prothom Alo, Daily Star: Sakhawat
Dr Sakhawat Hossain said that differences of opinion are a fundamental part of democracy, but violence and attacks on media institutions are completely unacceptable.
Shipping and Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain has said that the government is determined to take strict legal action against those involved in the attack, vandalism, and arson at the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star.
"We're committed to taking tougher legal action against those to be found involved in the attack on the Prothom Alo and the Daily Star offices," he said.
He made the remarks while visiting the offices of the two leading national dailies in Dhaka today, where he inspected the damaged infrastructure and spoke with media personnel.
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Dr Sakhawat Hossain said that differences of opinion are a fundamental part of democracy, but violence and attacks on media institutions are completely unacceptable.
Calling the incident deeply regrettable, he emphasized that the government does not interfere with the media and is committed to ensuring its full independence.
"The media is an important pillar of the state. Its role in nation-building is crucial, and the government and the media must work together," he said.
Law enforcement agencies have already taken necessary steps to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice, he added.
Noting that publishing newspapers requires great courage and professionalism, he expressed confidence that the media will continue to uphold truth and public interest.
He praised the resilience and dedication of the officials and employees of the Prothom Alo and The Daily Star.
The 2024 Mass Uprising is a significant chapter in the country's political history, he said.
After the inspection, Dr Sakhawat Hossain expressed solidarity with the affected journalists and staff, assuring them that the media would overcome the setback and that press freedom would be safeguarded.
During the visit, The Daily Star's Consulting Editor Kamal Ahmed and Prothom Alo's Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif, along with senior journalists and officials from both organizations, were present.
