Media Under Threat in Bangladesh as Global TV Receives Warning After Newspaper Attacks

Tensions continue to rise in Bangladesh’s media landscape. After violent attacks on two leading newspapers, another television news organisation has come under threat.
A group of youths recently visited the office of Global TV Bangladesh in Dhaka and issued a direct warning over the channel’s editorial leadership.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns about press freedom and journalist safety in the country.

Youths Issue Warning at Global TV Office

According to reports, several young men went to Global TV’s office in the Tejgaon area of Dhaka. They allegedly demanded the removal of the channel’s head of news, Naznin Munni.

The group warned that Global TV could face attacks similar to those suffered by Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. Both newspaper offices were vandalised and set on fire during recent unrest. The youths reportedly gave the channel a 48-hour deadline.

Managing Director Refuses Written Demand

Naznin Munni later shared details of the incident in a Facebook post. She said seven to eight people entered the office and issued the threat. She described the visit as part of a growing pattern of intimidation against independent media outlets.
Naznin was not present during the visit. The group met Global TV’s managing director instead.
According to reports, the visitors asked him to sign a written undertaking. The document demanded Naznin’s removal from her position within 48 hours. The managing director refused to sign. His refusal prevented any immediate administrative action.

Group Denies Organisational Involvement

The visitors claimed links to the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, a group that led major protests last year. However, the organisation strongly denied any role in the incident.
Its president, Rifat Rashid, said the individuals did not represent the movement. He stated that the group does not support threats or violence against journalists. He also promised action against those involved.

Violence Followed Renewed Political Unrest

The Global TV incident took place on December 21. It came just three days after attacks on Prothom Alo and The Daily Star.
Those attacks followed renewed unrest triggered by the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. Hadi was a controversial youth leader known for his strong anti-India views.
Earlier this month, unidentified attackers shot Hadi while he was travelling on a motorcycle. He later died from his injuries.
His death reignited protests and anger among sections of the youth.

Coverage Dispute Sparked Confrontation

Naznin Munni later told Prothom Alo that the group accused Global TV of inadequate coverage. They claimed the channel did not give sufficient importance to Hadi’s death. She rejected the allegation. She said editorial decisions follow journalistic standards, not pressure or intimidation. Naznin also warned that repeated threats could silence independent voices.

Growing Fears for Press Freedom

Sharif Osman Hadi rose to prominence during the 2024 student-led uprising. The movement eventually led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Since then, Bangladesh has witnessed periodic unrest. Journalists now fear they may become easy targets during political tensions.
Media rights groups have urged authorities to ensure protection for journalists and news organisations. They say attacks on the press weaken democracy and public trust.
For now, Global TV continues operations. But the warning has left the newsroom on alert.