The Shillong Press Club (SPC) has strongly condemned the arrest and subsequent re-arrest of Assam journalist Dilawar Hussain Mazumdar.
The chief reporter of Crosscurrent Digital Media, who is also the Assistant General Secretary of the Guwahati Press Club was first arrested on the night of March 25. Although he was granted bail on March 26, he was rearrested on March 27 based on a complaint filed by the managing director of the Assam Cooperative Apex Bank.
“The act of re-arresting him immediately after he was granted bail is not only deeply troubling but also a shocking abuse of legal process. This sequence of actions represents a direct attack on press freedom and the fundamental right to free expression. We stand in unwavering solidarity with Mr. Mozumder and demand his immediate and unconditional release,” SPC president Deimaia L Siangshai said in a statement.
Siangshai said in a democratic society, the media plays an essential role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information.
“Attempts to suppress this role through coercion and intimidation are unacceptable and must be firmly resisted. We call upon the authorities to uphold the rule of law, respect the independence of the press, and protect the rights and dignity of media professionals. Such disturbing tactics must cease if we are to preserve the democratic values enshrined in our Constitution,” he added.
