Satkhira journalists stage demonstration following press club violence

Journalists in Satkhira formed a human chain protest at noon today, (1 July), in the New Market area, condemning a violent attack on fellow media professionals allegedly carried out by suspected drug-addicted outsiders. 

The incident occurred yesterday (30 June) when around 70 to 80 journalists, led by Satkhira Press Club President Abul Kashem and General Secretary Asaduzzaman Asad, attempted to enter the Press Club premises. 

They were reportedly attacked without warning.

Belal Hossain, correspondent for DBC Television, and Aminur Rahman of Bhorer Akash suffered serious injuries in the assault, while several others were also injured.

During the protest, Abul Kashem stated, "Drug users and known local criminals launched a brutal attack on journalists. Three individuals were seriously injured. We demand that those responsible be brought to justice."

He also noted that the district administration had pledged to establish an election commission by 8 July to resolve the ongoing leadership conflict within the Press Club. "The leadership will be formed through a membership verification process followed by a vote overseen by the newly formed election commission," Kashem said.

10 journalists injured in attack at Satkhira Press Club

"The Superintendent of Police has also assured us that the attackers will be brought under the purview of the law. At the request of administrative officials, we are suspending all protest activities until 8 July."

Following 5 August, two separate committees were formed within the Satkhira Press Club, fuelling a leadership dispute between the Abu Sayeed–Abdul Bari group and the Kashem–Asad group. 

Among those present at the demonstration were General Secretary Asaduzzaman Asad; senior journalist Kalyan Banerjee; former presidents Momtaz Ahmed Bappy, Firoz Ahmed, and Farid Hossain Moyna; along with approximately 50 other journalists.