Bangladeshi journalist Khandaker Shah Alam killed in retaliation for reporting

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 4 months ago |  From information provided by IFJ

DHAKA – Journalist Khandaker Shah Alam was brutally attacked and killed on June 25 in Nabinagar Upazila, northeast of Dhaka, in a targeted retaliation for his reporting. According to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the killing marks yet another chilling reminder of the dangers faced by media workers in Bangladesh.

Alam, the local correspondent for Bangla-language newspaper Daily Matrijagat, died after being assaulted by a former prisoner, Babul Mia—also known as ‘Tiger Babul Dakat’—who had been released from jail earlier that day. Mia, a known figure in multiple robbery cases, allegedly attacked Alam in response to the journalist’s prior reporting on his criminal activities and arrest.

The incident began with a street confrontation between Alam and Mia, during which the journalist’s phone and personal belongings were stolen. Later that same day, Alam attempted to recover his possessions, but a second encounter turned violent. Mia reportedly punched and kicked Alam repeatedly in the chest, leaving him unconscious.

Alam was rushed to Nabinagar Health Complex, where he was declared dead upon arrival.

Local residents intervened immediately after the attack and handed Mia over to police following a brief scuffle. Authorities have since charged him with manslaughter. He remains in police custody while receiving medical treatment.

The Bangladesh Manobadhikar Sangbadik Forum (BMSF), an IFJ affiliate, condemned the killing:

“BMSF strongly condemns this murder case. We demand the immediate arrest of the perpetrators and call for legal action to be brought against them.”

The IFJ said:

“The IFJ strongly condemns the targeted killing of journalist Khandaker Shah Alam. Bangladesh continues to be one of the region’s most hostile environments for media workers, with intimidation, harassment, and violent attacks remaining widespread during the interim government period. This latest assault is a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect media workers and hold the perpetrators fully accountable.”

According to the IFJ South Asia Press Freedom Report 2024–25, six journalists have been killed in Bangladesh during a turbulent political transition following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The IFJ continues to urge governments to adopt the International Convention on the Safety and Independence of Journalists and Other Media Professionals, to ensure stronger protections for journalists operating in hostile environments.

—Information provided by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)