Mon Nov 25 15:15:38 UTC 2024: ## Pro-Government Protests Target Independent Bangladeshi Newspaper
**DHAKA, Bangladesh** – Hundreds of protesters besieged the offices of Prothom Alo, one of Bangladesh’s few remaining independent newspapers, on Monday, demanding its closure. This follows similar protests targeting other media outlets, escalating concerns about press freedom in the country.
The demonstrations, which also occurred in Rajshahi and Chittagong, come in the wake of the overthrow of former autocratic leader Sheikh Hasina. While protesters accuse Prothom Alo of anti-Islam and pro-India bias, and of supporting Hasina’s regime, the newspaper’s executive editor Sajjad Sharif vehemently denies these claims, citing a long history of resisting government pressure.
The protests reflect a broader crackdown on the press following Hasina’s ouster. Dozens of journalists, many perceived as having supported the former regime, are facing police investigations, with at least four currently in custody. Reporters Without Borders reports that as many as 140 journalists are under investigation, describing the situation as “systematic judicial harassment.”
While interim leader Muhammad Yunus has publicly stated his commitment to media freedom, these actions contradict his assurances. The Committee to Protect Journalists has urged the government to implement reforms to safeguard press freedom, highlighting the critical juncture facing Bangladesh. The targeting of Prothom Alo and other publications underscores a growing climate of intimidation and suppression of critical voices within the country.
First Piper 