The Rapid Response Taskforce (RRT) expresses deep concern over the alarming violations of press freedom in Bangladesh, particularly in light of recent incidents from October 2024 to February 2025. A total of 51 major cases have been identified in leading newspapers and online portals, including killings, arbitrary detentions, harassment, financial probes into 33 journalists by the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), alleged false cases, attacks on journalists’ families, mob violence against indigenous rights activists, and assaults on the Sabyasachi Publication and some other stalls at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair. These incidents highlight the escalating threats faced by journalists and human rights defenders.

The brutal murder of journalist Swapan Bhadra, formerly of the Tarakanda Press Club and Daily Swajan, underscores the grave risks faced by reporters investigating corruption and crime. His killing is not only a violation of the right to life but also indicative of a broader collapse in law and order, where impunity fuels further violence. Additionally, journalists whose reporting was perceived as favorable to the previous government have been subjected to criminal investigations, with some facing imprisonment. The arbitrary detentions of journalists Pradip Chowdhury (Daily Samakal) and Mehedi Hasan Sagar (Dhaka Tribune) raise serious concerns about politically motivated arrests.

The growing dangers faced by journalists are evident in multiple recent attacks. The Daily Star’s Shahidul Islam was assaulted while reporting, despite being visibly identified as a journalist. In Shariatpur, four journalists—Sohag Khan Sujan (Samakal), Bidhan Mojumder Oni (News24 Television), Nayan Das (Bangla TV), and Saiful Islam Akash (Desh TV)—were attacked for exposing hospital negligence. Similarly, Sujan Mahmud (Daily Khola Kagoj, Kurigram) was targeted for reporting on a local political leader. Meanwhile, Prothom Alo’s Narail correspondent, Md. Raju Sheikh, received death threats and verbal abuse after publishing a report on vandalism at Narail Government Victoria College.

Judicial actions have further stifled press freedom. The High Court’s contempt ruling against Daily Jugantor’s editor, publisher, and a columnist exemplifies this trend. Likewise, the attack on Kalbela correspondent Jahangir Mahmud’s home in Rupganj and the legal case against Desh Rupantar’s Sonagazi correspondent, Abul Hossain Ripon, following his coverage of an anti-discrimination protest, illustrate the mounting risks journalists face both on and off duty. Additionally, the mass revocation of press accreditation for 167 journalists severely restricts access to information and erodes public trust in the media.

The closure of Bhorer Kagoj, a 33-year-old newspaper founded in the early 1990s, in January 2025 further reflects the deteriorating media landscape. The abrupt shutdown left approximately 140 employees jobless without any service benefits. The newspaper’s closure followed the detention of its editor, Shyamal Dutta, in September—shortly after the fall of the previous regime—raising concerns about the state of press freedom and independent journalism.

The proposed Cyber Safety Ordinance poses additional threats to free expression. The RRT urges a cautious approach, calling for extended consultations, stakeholder participation, and public engagement before any enactment.

While the repeal of the Cyber Security Act and ongoing discussions on media reform are positive steps, these measures are overshadowed by continued press freedom violations. This stands in stark contrast to the interim government’s assertion of ‘unprecedented media freedom.’ The RRT calls on authorities to take immediate action, including transparent investigations into journalist killings, the release of wrongfully detained reporters, and the reinstatement of press accreditation unless credible evidence of misconduct exists.

Upholding the rule of law is crucial to safeguarding press freedom. The RRT demands long-term measures to protect journalists across all sectors, particularly those from marginalized communities, ensuring a safe and enabling media environment. The Taskforce remains committed to defending digital and civic space in Bangladesh, advocating for free expression, access to information, and fundamental human rights.