A leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been accused of assaulting three journalists in the courtyard of the district administrator’s office in Shariatpur, according to reports from Prothom Alo. The incident took place on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Prothom Alo reports that after the physical attack, the BNP leader addressed the journalists, saying, "You write, and we will beat." The remark, as quoted by the outlet, has drawn sharp criticism from press freedom advocates.
The assault occurred in a public space, the district administrator’s office compound, a location typically associated with official business and civic engagement. The journalists were reportedly covering an event there when the BNP leader confronted them. The exact reason for the attack has not been detailed in the available reporting.
The Daily Star Bangla and The Daily Ittefaq also covered the incident, with Ittefaq quoting the same remark. Following the assault, journalists in Shariatpur staged a protest demanding the withdrawal of the district administrator, according to thedhakaxpress.com. The connection between the assault and the demand for the administrator’s removal is not fully explained in the available material.
The incident raises fresh concerns about the safety of journalists in Bangladesh, particularly those covering political figures. Attacks on the press, especially in public settings, undermine the ability of reporters to do their work without fear.
What to watch next: Whether the BNP leadership issues any statement on the alleged assault, and if local authorities take any legal action against the accused leader.
