Journalist assaulted in capital by Jamaat-e-Islami

A journalist had been allegedly assaulted by activists of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh at Dhanmondi-32 (Symbolic place for banned AwamiLeage) in the capital on Tuesday (June 23).

During the assault, activists were shouting toward Journalist and labelling him as a  "ally of the AwamiLeague."

Media reported that the incident had occurred around 8:30 AM while Jamaat-e-Islami had organized a procession in the Dhanmondi Zone 32 area, coinciding with the 77th founding anniversary of the AwamiLeague—a party whose activities are currently banned.

According to eyewitnesses, a briefing was underway following the procession of Jamaat-e-Islami, some activists accused Mahfuzur Rahman Shishir, a reporter for the daily *Shakal-er Khobor*, of being an "AwamiLeague ally."  When journalists arrived at the scene, a heated exchange ensued between the two groups. The situation quickly escalated into a physical altercation. During the scuffle, Jamaat activists grabbed Shishir by the collar and punched him; he was also kicked after falling to the ground.

Journalist Mahfuzur Rahman Shishir stated, "It is shameful that Jamaat activists assaulted and injured me." He questioned the political party, "You (Jamaat-e-Islami) speak about Press Freedom. Is grabbing a journalist by the collar and assaulting him an example of that freedom?"

Later, colleagues rescued him and took him to a nearby private hospital for treatment.

Abdus Sattar Sumon, Assistant Publicity Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami’s Dhaka Metropolitan South unit, described the incident as unfortunate.

Md. Saiful Islam, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Dhanmondi Police Station, said, "We have heard about such an incident. However, I am unaware whether victime is a journalist. No one has filed a complaint at the police station regarding this incident."