On December 21, 2025, a group of 7–8 young men threatened the authorities of Global TV Bangladesh in Tejgaon, Dhaka, demanding the removal of Naznin Munni, the channel’s Head of News. The group warned that if she was not dismissed, the office would be set on fire “like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star,” referencing the arson attacks on the two media houses on December 18.
The individuals identified themselves as members of the Metropolitan branch of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and submitted a memorandum to Global TV’s Managing Director demanding Munni’s removal within 48 hours, labeling her an “ally of fascism.” According to Munni, the group explicitly threatened arson after the management refused to sign a written commitment to dismiss her. While the Managing Director did not sign the document, a colleague reportedly did.
Naznin Munni later stated publicly that this was part of a continued pattern of intimidation against journalists, particularly those in decision-making positions. She said the office initially advised her to remain silent and stay away from work temporarily, but she chose to speak out. “They issue threats every two days. This is unacceptable,” she wrote, noting that other women journalists, including those at Jamuna TV, have faced similar threats.
Responding to the incident, Rashidul Islam (Rifat Rashid), central president of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, told media that the visit was carried out by a Metropolitan Committee member without central approval. He said a show-cause notice had been issued and claimed the memorandum did not explicitly mention arson, though Munni and the channel’s management reported otherwise. He stated that disciplinary action would be taken if a formal complaint is filed.
The incident adds to a growing list of threats, arson attacks, and intimidation targeting media institutions and journalists following recent political unrest. For women journalists in leadership roles, these threats carry a distinctly gendered dimension, reinforcing a climate of fear aimed at silencing voices within the media and undermining press freedom in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Feminist Archives 