‘Targeted attacks on media are a shame for the nation,’ says BNP leader Salahuddin

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today condemned the recent arson attacks on two leading newspapers, describing them as a "national shame" and questioning the government's role in the incidents.

"The unfortunate incidents a few days ago, where leading newspapers, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were burned, have been witnessed by the whole world," he said.

Speaking at a view–exchange meeting with editors and senior journalists at a city hotel ahead of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman's homecoming, Salahuddin said, "As a nation, this is a matter of shame. We cannot simply end it with an apology or expression of regret."

He emphasised that newspapers and the media reflect the conscience and opinion of the nation, shaping public thought and holding power to account. 

"That mirror has now been shattered," he said, adding that journalists must not lose the vital pride of being that mirror.

Salahuddin alleged that the government failed to act despite intelligence warnings following the death of Osman Hadi, which had indicated that such attacks might occur.

"There should have been predictions, intelligence reports and preparations to prevent it. We also came to know about those reports. But why were they ignored?" he asked.

The BNP leader said they heard that after informing the law enforcement agencies, the response came one to two hours later. "The role of those responsible for running the state and holding a neutral election, their role in this matter is now questionable," he said.

He added that targeted attacks on media outlets were not new, citing similar pressure in recent months. 

"It should have been anticipated. The way mobocracy has been allowed at certain establishments shows that, though we wanted democracy, it has somehow turned into mobocracy," Salahuddin said.