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Leader of the Opposition and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman on Sunday called for ensuring a safe and secure working environment for journalists, saying justice for slain journalist Turab is essential to upholding press freedom and restoring public confidence in the rule of law.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the grave of journalist Turab at Fatehpur graveyard in Beanibazar, Sylhet, Dr. Shafiqur said the failure to bring those responsible for the killing to justice even after two years sends a worrying message for independent journalism.
Turab, who served as the Sylhet bureau chief of Daily Naya Diganta and a staff reporter for Daily Jalalabad, was among those killed during the political unrest in 2024.
The Jamaat chief laid a wreath at the grave, offered special prayers for the deceased and later met Turab’s family members. He expressed his condolences to Turab’s elder brother, Abu Azraf Md. Jabur, and other relatives and inquired about their well-being.
“The country has been freed from fascism through the sacrifices of many martyrs, including journalist Turab. It is deeply unfortunate that even after two years, the trial over his murder has not yet begun,” Dr. Shafiqur said.
He warned that prolonged delays in the judicial process could undermine public trust in the justice system and discourage journalists from carrying out fearless and independent reporting.
“If the killers of journalist Turab are not brought to justice, it will discourage courageous, truth-seeking journalism in the future,” he said.
The Jamaat Ameer stressed that a prompt and fair trial in the case is necessary not only to deliver justice to Turab’s family but also to ensure a safe working environment for journalists across the country.
“The murder of journalist Turab must be tried without delay to ensure the safety of journalists and restore people’s confidence in the rule of law,” he said.
Dr. Shafiqur also said his party would continue to press for justice in the case.
“We will continue our demand for justice for Turab. His murder must be tried in the interest of justice. We do not know whether the current government will ensure justice in this case, but we firmly believe that, ultimately, Turab will receive justice before the Almighty,” he added.