NOAB Condemns Ongoing Attacks on Media Freedom, Urges Government Action

The Newspaper Owners Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) has expressed concern over what it calls an “extreme attack” on media freedom in the country. In a statement issued on Monday, signed by NOAB President A.K. Azad, the organization condemned the continued attacks on media independence.

The statement highlighted recent incidents of violence, including attacks, vandalism, and demonstrations in front of the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. It mentioned that, in recent days, individuals had attempted to create disorder outside Prothom Alo‘s main office in the capital’s Karwan Bazar. While law enforcement eventually dispersed the crowds, similar activities continued even today.

NOAB emphasized that anyone who disagrees with a newspaper’s content or editorial policies has the right to express their views through writing. However, it stated that attempts to create chaos are disrupting media freedom and the environment for journalism.

The organization strongly condemned these actions and urged the government to take strict measures against “mob justice” in all institutions, including the media. NOAB also called on all parties involved to refrain from activities that undermine media freedom.