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March 12, 2026 – Bangladesh –
Investigators in Bangladesh have found no evidence supporting allegations against 28 journalists in Chattogram who had been accused of involvement in attacks on student protesters during the country’s 2024 anti-government demonstrations, according to a report submitted to a local court.
The findings were presented by the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) following an inquiry ordered by the court after a complaint accused the journalists and dozens of other individuals of participating in violence during protests associated with the July uprising, a nationwide movement triggered by student demonstrations against government policies.
The case alleged that the journalists had assaulted protesting students, handed them over to ruling party activists, and published misleading or biased news reports about the demonstrations. The complaint also claimed that some reporters helped cover up attacks carried out by members of political groups aligned with the former ruling party.
According to the PBI’s investigation, however, no evidence or verifiable witness testimony was found to support the accusations. Investigators stated that they repeatedly contacted the complainant, issuing several notices requesting her to appear and provide supporting information, but she failed to present documentation or testimony.
Authorities also reported that the witnesses listed in the case could not be located or verified, further weakening the claims. As a result, investigators concluded that the allegations against the journalists could not be substantiated and submitted a final report recommending dismissal of the charges.
The complaint had originally named 109 individuals, including political figures and members of the media, in connection with violence during protests in Muradpur and other areas of Chattogram. Among those accused were prominent journalists from a range of local and national media outlets.
The case stemmed from clashes that occurred during the 2024 student protest movement, which later expanded into a wider national uprising against the government. The demonstrations were marked by violent confrontations between protesters, security forces, and political groups, resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries across the country.
While the PBI report clears the journalists of wrongdoing, the case has highlighted tensions surrounding the role of media coverage during periods of political unrest. Journalists covering protests and political conflicts in Bangladesh often face accusations from multiple sides, reflecting the highly polarized nature of the country’s political environment.
The court is expected to review the investigation report before making a final decision on whether to formally close the case against the journalists.
Reference –
https://observerbd.com/news/569349
