We strongly condemn the attack on the members of the media by the activists of BCL and the police. It is shocking that journalists would have their phones, cameras and other equipment snatched and destroyed, harassed and physically assaulted for doing their duty. This reprehensible violation of free expression, press freedom and the right to information, which should be available to all in any democracy, is simply unpardonable.

At the same time, we are equally surprised that the police commissioner should seek the assistance of a select student body to control the demonstration and identify non-students, as reported in the press. It is the duty of the police, and not of any political party appendages, to maintain law and order. Under special circumstances, the police can, of course, call on citizens for assistance and support. But instead of doing that, why did the police commissioner specifically have to call on a particular student body? Meanwhile, allegations have also emerged that the law enforcers did nothing to prevent the attacks on students, journalists and others by the BCL cadres which, again, begs the question as to who the police are serving.

Such attacks on the press is an attack on press freedom and free expression in general, which is extremely alarming. We call on the government and law enforcers to ensure the safety, security and physical integrity of all journalists who are simply doing their job, and to hold those responsible for the attacks to account, in order to uphold the very fundamental of a free society.