Attackers on TBS journalist will be arrested: Info minister

Those accused of the attack on The Business Standard (TBS) journalist Abu Azad, while collecting news about illegal brick kilns in Chattogram's Rangunia, will be arrested, said Information and Broadcasting Minister Hasan Mahmud.

"I know that the journalist was beaten up. A case has been filed. The accused will be arrested. Beating anyone, be it a journalist or anyone else, is a punishable offence. As far as I know, the police have arrested four persons," the minister said at a meeting with journalists at his residence in the city's Dewanji Pukur Par on Saturday.

Hasan Mahmud, also a former forest and environment minister, said, "Department of Environment and district administration have taken action against these [illegal] brick kilns, which is ongoing. Many brick kilns have been fined while some have been closed."

On 25 December, local UP member Mohiuddin Talukder Mohan along with six people beat TBS journalist Abu Azad and threatened him with pistols while he was taking pictures of illegal brick kilns in Rangunia.

On 26 December, the victim filed a case against 11 people including the UP chairman, at Rangunia Model Police Station alleging attempted murder, kidnapping, extortion, beating and extortion.

Regarding the nomination of actress Mahia Mahi in Chapainawabganj by-election, the minister said at the meeting, "Anyone who believes in the ideology, principles and ideals of the Awami League can seek nomination. So, if an actor or actress wants nomination, it is not a crime. Many from the media world in West Bengal and South India have been nominated." 

He added, "Of course, dedicated and hardworking leaders will be given priority in getting nominations, but there are many other factors to be considered."