The body of veteran journalist Bibhuranjan Sarkar, former in-charge of the editorial page of Bengali daily Ajker Patrika, was recovered from the Meghna River in Munshiganj, triggering grief and outrage across the country, especially among the journalist community. His mysterious death has raised serious allegations of threats and sustained pressure from the interim government’s chief advisor’s press secretary, Shafiqul Alam.

According to reports, Sarkar was forcibly sent on leave and subjected to repeated intimidation before his death— he himself mentioned in an open letter.

The controversy began on August 14, when an article titled “History’s Eventful August” by CPB leader Mazharul Islam Babla was published in the editorial section of the daily. The piece reportedly angered Shafiqul Alam, who objected to its suggestion that militants had been involved in the recent mass uprising.

As per the complaint, Shafiqul Alam called the newspaper directly and issued threats, including revoking the paper’s license and informing intelligence agencies. He allegedly submitted a list of eight journalists, labeling them “friends of fascists,” and pressured the management to dismiss them immediately.
Under this pressure, the newspaper removed the article from its online edition and sent Sarkar on indefinite leave.

Mounting stress and open letter

Colleagues said Sarkar was deeply affected by the humiliation.
In his open letter, Sarkar revealed that the threats continued even after his removal. He reportedly tried to contact the editor for guidance but received no response. Days later, his body was recovered from the Meghna River.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from journalists, rights groups, and unions.

A senior journalist and columnist said: “This is like putting the final nail in the coffin of independent journalism. If a senior journalist has to give his life for publishing an article, then media freedom no longer exists. Today it is Bibhuranjan, tomorrow it will be us.”

A prominent human rights activist added: “This is not an isolated case. It reflects a broader attack on freedom of expression and a culture of impunity. We demand the immediate formation of an independent and impartial judicial inquiry commission.”

Journalist unions have condemned the death in strong terms, warning of protests unless justice is delivered.

“A journalist threatened for publishing an article and later found dead in a river—this cannot happen in any civilized country,” said a leader of the Journalists Union.

Family demands justice

Sarkar’s son, in tears, directly accused those who had threatened his father: “My father did nothing wrong. He was only doing his duty. Those who forced him out and threatened him are responsible for his death. We want nothing but justice. We urge the Chief Advisor to ensure a fair investigation.”

As outrage grows, pressure is mounting on the interim government to order an independent probe into the death of Bibhuranjan Sarkar—an incident many see as a grim reflection of the shrinking space for press freedom in the country.

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