Press Statement

IJU concerned over media safety and internet shutdown in Bangladesh

22 Jul, 2024

The Indian Journalists Union (IJU) expresses serious concern over protesting students in Dhaka, Bangladesh, setting on fire the reception building of the state broadcaster Bangladesh TV (BTV) on Thursday and the government imposing a complete internet ban across the nation.

 

The ongoing protests by students demanding reforms in the reservation system for government jobs, including for the relatives of 1971 war heroes, who fought for the country’s independence, have so far claimed 32 lives. Hundreds of protestors gathered outside BTV’s headquarters, set the network’s reception, and dozens of vehicles parked outside on fire. The police fired rubber bullets to bring some order. While initial reports said ‘many people’ were trapped inside the building, police officials said all the people had been safely evacuated.

In a statement, IJU President and former member of Press Council of India Geetartha Pathak and Secretary General and International Federation of Journalists Vice President Sabina Inderjit said it was unfortunate that the protestors targeted the state broadcaster building and its employees. The media is a public service and must be allowed to carry out its responsibilities in informing citizens, especially in times of crisis.

At the same time, IJU said restricting internet services, including mobile networks, goes against the right to information and serves no purpose. It urged the protestors not to target the media and the government to restore internet services so citizens can stay informed.

 

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