Five months have passed since several members of the Dhaka University Journalists’ Association (DUJA) were allegedly assaulted by a group of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) leaders and activists inside Shahbagh Police Station while performing their professional duties, but the Dhaka University administration is yet to publish its investigation report on the incident.
The attack took place on April 23 amid heightened tensions between activists of Dhaka University unit JCD and Chhatra Shibir at Shahbagh Police Station. At least 10 DUJA members were reportedly assaulted while covering the incident.
The university administration formed a six-member investigation committee on the night of the incident and asked it to submit its report within three working days. However, the report has yet to be made public.
The delay has raised concerns among the journalists who were allegedly assaulted over the university administration’s handling of the incident and its efforts to ensure accountability.
Regarding the matter, DU Proctor Israfil Ratan said, “I have to discuss the matter with the probe committee then can comment on its progress. Several groups are involved in the matter, so we need to consider the possible aftermath before reaching a conclusion. We are discussing the issue with the concerned groups.”
What happened on April 23?
The incident began after a screenshot of a derogatory Facebook post, allegedly posted from a Shibir activist’s account and targeting BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and his daughter Zaima Rahman, circulated online.
On April 23, JCD activists went to Shahbagh Police Station in connection with the issue, while several Shibir activists and DUCSU representatives also went there to file a general diary.
Tensions escalated inside the police station, leading to physical confrontations between the groups. DUJA members covering the incident alleged that they were attacked by a group of JCD activists while performing their journalistic duties.
Following the incident, DUJA demanded the immediate identification of those involved and disciplinary action against them. The association also called for legal and administrative measures to ensure the safety of journalists.