Journalists and employees of Bhorer Kagoj staged a protest at the Department of Films and Publications (DFP) in Dhaka, demanding the reopening of the newspaper, payment of outstanding wages under the Eighth Wage Board, and reinstatement of dismissed employees.
From 12pm to 2pm on Sunday, protesters called for immediate action, urging authorities to resume publication and clear all dues.
Key speakers included Bhorer Kagoj Chief Reporter Khondkar Kawsar Hossain, Joint News Editor Mukul Shahriar, and other senior staff.
Following the DFP protest, demonstrators marched to News Editor Ikhtiar Uddin’s Moghbazar residence, demanding his arrest over an alleged student murder case.
Protesters claimed Bhorer Kagoj implemented the Eighth Wage Board and received government benefits, including Tk900 per column inch for advertisements. However, employees say they were denied their rightful salaries and benefits and were not even provided appointment letters.
During the demonstration, protesters declared that their demands must be met, including reopening the newspaper, issuing appointment letters, implementing the Wage Board, and clearing all outstanding salaries and service benefits.
They warned of stricter actions if their demands were not fulfilled.
On January 20, the daily Bhorer Kagoj announced the cessation of its publication.
The newspaper's ownership issued a notice declaring the shutdown.
It has been learned that for the past few days, some journalists at Bhorer Kagoj have been protesting to demand salaries according to the 8th Wage Board and payment of arrears from their date of appointment.