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Nazira Journalists Unite Against MLA A.K. Rashid Alam’s Uncivilized Remarks

By SK Hasan |

A political storm has erupted in Nazira following Congress MLA A.K. Rashid Alam’s alleged use of unparliamentary language against senior journalist and ND24 Editor-in-Chief Rajdeep Bailung Baruah during a live television program. The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from local journalist bodies, who have demanded immediate action.

In a strong joint response, the Nazira Press Club and Nazira Hangabadik Mancha have termed the MLA’s behavior as "uncivilized, unacceptable, and a direct attack on the freedom of the press."

Bhashkar Jyoti Borgohain, President of the Nazira Press Club, issued a statement demanding that the Congress party initiate disciplinary proceedings against the legislator. "Such derogatory remarks against a journalist are not only an insult to the individual but also to the institution of the free press," he said. Borgohain urged the party to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and to send a clear message that harassment of journalists will not be tolerated.

Echoing these sentiments, Nabajyoti Buragohain, Secretary of the Press Club, announced a protest meeting scheduled for July 20 at 1 PM, where members of the press and concerned citizens are expected to gather and express solidarity against the rising trend of intimidation of journalists.

Meanwhile, the Nazira Hangabadik Mancha also issued a separate press statement signed by President Mintu Chitrakar and Secretary Pradip Hazarika. The organization condemned the MLA’s behavior in strong terms, labeling it "an attack on the fourth pillar of democracy." The statement asserted that disrespect towards the media is a serious threat to democratic discourse and must be confronted collectively.

As part of the protest, members of the Hangabadik Mancha were seen marching through the streets of Nazira today, wearing black badges and carrying placards, demanding accountability and respect for journalistic freedom.

With pressure mounting from local journalist bodies, all eyes are now on the Congress party and its response to the growing outrage. Will it act decisively, or let the controversy simmer further?

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Freelance journalist, Nazira, Sibasagar district.
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