Terming recent murders of bloggers attack on free speech and democracy, the European Union has called upon all to stand united against violent extremism in Bangladesh.

The murder of Oyashiqur Rahman is the second attack in a month that targeted Bangladeshi bloggers, a statement issued yesterday from the office of EU spokesperson said. "The killings of Washiqur Rahman and Avijit Roy are attack on free speech and democracy."

Oyashiqur, a blogger and an online activist, was brutally killed in broad daylight by cleaver-wielding assailants on March 30. Two madrasa students were arrested in this connection.

The murder took place in short spacing from the hineous killing of writer Avijit Roy who was hacked to death and his wife injured in Dhaka University area on February 26.

Facebook photo of writer and blogger Avijit Roy and his wife Bonya. The couple were attacked from behind near TSC of Dhaka University on February 26. Avijit died in the attack and his wife sustained serious injuries.

"The EU reiterates its deep commitment to freedom of expression and freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief. Tolerance and dialogue are essential elements of a democratic society," the statement from the office of EU spokesperson said.

"Government authorities, political parties and civil society should stand together against the actions of violent extremists in Bangladesh. The perpetrators of these murders must be swiftly brought to justice," the statement added.