Tensions rise in Bangladesh as protesters target Prothom Alo over minority coverage
by Ekta ChaubeyTensions escalated in Bangladesh when a group of Islamists attempted to slaughter a cow outside the offices of Prothom Alo, a leading media house known for highlighting the persecution of Hindus, sparking a significant law enforcement response.
The incident occurred in the Karwan Bazar district in Dhaka city on November 24.
Visuals showed dramatic scenes as police baton-charged the protesters and used tear gas and sound grenades to control the situation, which had turned increasingly tense.
According to reports, two individuals were detained during the clash. To maintain order, a substantial deployment of police and army personnel was made. The detained individuals were later taken to Tejgaon Police Station for interrogation. Officer-in-Charge Mubarak Hossain stated that decisions regarding their arrest or release would be made following the questioning.
The protest organizers reportedly slaughtered a cow as part of a planned communal meal for participants. The demonstration was fueled by anger towards Prothom Alo, which has faced criticism from Islamist groups for its consistent reporting on issues of minority oppression in Bangladesh.