Bangladesh journalist Bibhuranjan Sarkar found dead after threats

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 26 August 2025 |  JP Staff Report

The body of journalist Bibhuranjan Sarkar was discovered in the Meghna River, raising concerns over press safety in Bangladesh. He faced threats prior to his death, leading to widespread condemnation among journalists and rights groups.

Summary

DHAKA—The body of senior journalist Bibhuranjan Sarkar, former editorial head of Ajker Patrika, was recovered from the Meghna River in Munshiganj, sparking grief and fury across Bangladesh’s media fraternity.

According to The CSR Journal, Sarkar had faced sustained intimidation and was forced on leave shortly before his death. In an open letter, he accused the interim government’s chief advisor’s press secretary, Shafiqul Alam, of issuing threats after an editorial article published on August 14 angered authorities.

The disputed piece, written by CPB leader Mazharul Islam Babla, suggested militant involvement in recent protests. Following the article, Alam allegedly threatened the paper with license revocation, named eight journalists as “friends of fascists,” and pressured management to dismiss them.

Colleagues said Sarkar was devastated by the ordeal and sought guidance from the editor, but was ignored. Days later, his body was found in the river.

The death has ignited outrage among journalists, rights groups, and unions. A senior columnist warned, “If a senior journalist has to give his life for publishing an article, then media freedom no longer exists.”

Rights activists are demanding an independent judicial inquiry, while journalist unions have threatened nationwide protests.

Sarkar’s son directly blamed those who intimidated his father: “He was only doing his duty. Those who forced him out and threatened him are responsible for his death.”

The incident has intensified pressure on the interim government to ensure a transparent probe, amid growing fears of shrinking press freedom in Bangladesh.