Several identified in attack on Prothom Alo-Daily Star offices

Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain has said that that the identities of several individuals involved in the arson attacks on Prothom Alo and The Daily Star have been identified, and steps are being taken to bring them to justice. 

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Sunday, December 21.

Responding to questions about ongoing mob violence, Khalid Hossain said the government is working to prevent such incidents but acknowledged the challenge of controlling all locations in advance, as attacks often occur unexpectedly. “We always discourage such acts,” he added.

He stated that intelligence reports provided photographs and identification details of some perpetrators, and measures are underway for their arrest.

Regarding the attack on Chhayanaut and comments from some members of Islami Chhatra Shibir opposing such institutions, the adviser said, “Who says what is not within our jurisdiction. However, it is never acceptable for any government-approved institution to be set on fire or for people to be harmed. We consider such acts unjust and heinous, and we are determined to take legal action.”

The attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, Chhayanaut, and other sites occurred across the country on the same night. When asked if this indicated an intelligence failure, he said it was not appropriate for him to comment directly and emphasised that the matter falls under the Home Ministry.

He also highlighted an example where timely intelligence allowed authorities to prevent an incident near the burial site of Hadi beside the grave of Kazi Nazrul Islam, close to the Faculty of Fine Arts.

Addressing concerns about foreign instigation, Khalid Hossain said comments from abroad are beyond the control of the Bangladesh government. “Platforms like Meta and YouTube oversee such content. Even within Bangladesh, I receive insults daily,” he added.

RMM/MHK