Journalist butchered

In the south-western region of the country, at least 13 journalists have been killed in the last 10 years -- a figure that speaks volumes about the dangers associated with the job of a newsmen. It is evident that the professional hazards have multiplied outside the capital. That does not of course mean that the journalists in Dhaka have had nothing to worry about since they occasionally receive threats. One must not overlook the fact that the forces opposed to freedom of press and a journalist's right to voice the truth will target any individual or organisation whenever their vested interests are hurt, regardless of location and identity.

Who are these elements that have apparently decided to gag the press through liquidating the journalists? How could they get away with such gruesome crimes? Why is the process of prosecuting them so slow? The questions are patently relevant. We have no reason to doubt that the attackers have been greatly aided and emboldened by the law taking a lacklustre course. The resolve to punish the killers has to be stronger rather than being rhetoric, and the pace of the legal process quickened, if we really want the lives of the journalists to be a little more secure.

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We are committed to press freedom as a matter of principle, because we believe that courageous and objective journalism is key to defending the people's right to know. The killings of the journalists that have taken place over the last few years and the harassment newsmen face have made the atmosphere incongenial for an honest discharge of their duties to the people, society and democracy.

The law enforcers must bring the killers of Chakrabarty to justice as a matter of top priority. We send our condolences to the members of the bereaved family.