Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Friday expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the violent attacks, vandalism and arson at the offices of daily Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of the President of the Editors’ Council and Editor of New Age, veteran journalist Nurul Kabir.

In a statement, DCAB said it believes that independent and responsible journalism is one of the main foundations of a democratic state.

"Violence, intimidation, attacks, or harassment aimed at silencing the media are in no way acceptable. Such actions are completely contrary to media freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law," said the statement.

The harassment of veteran journalist and editor Nurul Kabir, in particular, is a matter of grave concern, DCAB said, noting that this incident is not only an attack on professional dignity but also raises serious questions about the personal safety of journalists.

DCAB strongly demanded that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice through a fair, impartial and speedy investigation into these incidents.

At the same time, DCAB expects effective and visible measures from the government and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of media professionals.

Besides, DCAB expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the arrest of its former president Anis Alamgir and expressed solidarity with the statements issued by the Editors’ Council and other organisations regarding his arrest.

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DCAB also expressed solidarity with the national mourning, to be observed on Saturday, following the tragic death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, who passed away on Thursday while undergoing treatment in Singapore after being shot and injured.

DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun jointly issued the statement.